Definition of "wetback" in Anglais

noun

1. (derogatory slang) A Mexican or Central American who illegally enters the United States of America from its southern border.

   • 1920, Temporary admission of illiterate Mexican laborers: Hearings before the Committee on Immigration and Naturalization, House of Representatives, 66th Congress, 2nd Session, p. 141, Mr. HUDSPETH. […] I stood here and did all in my power to keep the “wetback” […] from coming across. And I stand here to-day asking for that. The CHAIRMAN. […] What is a “wetback”? Mr. HUDSPETH. You have heard a “wetback” described; he is a fellow that crosses the river surreptitiously.

2. (derogatory slang) A person of the mestizo race; a mojado.