Semitic refers to anything related to the Semitic languages, which are a group of languages spoken primarily in parts of western Asia and Africa
. These languages include Hebrew, Aramaic, Arabic, and others
. The term "Semitic" is derived from the name Shem, the eldest of the three sons of Noah, and has been used since the 19th century to refer to a member of any people who speak one of the Semitic languages
. However, the term has been criticized for its potential to perpetuate misconceptions about a "Semitic race" or culture, as Semitic-speaking peoples do not share any traits aside from language
. Some critics recommend using the term "Semite" only in a linguistic context and avoiding its use as an ethnic or cultural term
