Belgian means relating to Belgium, a small country in Western Europe bordered by France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the North Sea. Someone from Belgium is called a Belgian. Belgium is known for its medieval towns, Renaissance architecture, and as the headquarters of the European Union and NATO.

Belgium has two main language groups: Dutch speakers in the north (called Flemish) and French speakers in the south (called Walloons), plus a small German-speaking community. This linguistic division shapes Belgian politics and culture in interesting ways. Despite being roughly the size of Maryland, Belgium has produced remarkable contributions to art, science, and cuisine.

Belgians are famous for their chocolate, waffles, and fries (which, despite the name “French fries,” may have originated in Belgium). The country also produces hundreds of varieties of beer, many brewed by monks using centuries-old recipes. Belgian comic artists created beloved characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. The Atomium, a giant steel structure built for the 1958 World's Fair in Brussels, remains one of Belgium's most recognizable landmarks.

When you hear someone described as Belgian, they might speak Dutch, French, German, or all three, reflecting their country's unique multilingual character.