European describes people, things, or ideas from Europe, the continent that includes countries like France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Greece, and dozens of others. A European language might be Spanish or Swedish. A European city could be London or Prague. Someone born in Portugal or Norway is European.

Europe has shaped world history through exploration, art, science, and political ideas. European explorers sailed around the globe in the 1400s and 1500s. European scientists like Marie Curie and Isaac Newton made groundbreaking discoveries. European composers like Mozart and Beethoven created music still performed today. Many democratic traditions Americans value, including trial by jury and parliamentary government, have European origins.

The word can describe a style or way of doing things. A European breakfast might include fresh bread, cheese, and jam rather than pancakes and bacon. European soccer (called football there) uses different rules than American football. When Americans visit Europe, they notice European cars are often smaller, streets narrower, and buildings much older than what they see at home.

Today, many European countries belong to the European Union, an organization that helps them trade and cooperate with each other, though some countries like Switzerland and Norway have chosen to stay independent.