barbarian from north/west of China
Historical Chinese term for non-Han peoples from the northern and western regions, often with a derogatory nuance.
In ancient Chinese texts, 胡人 often refers to non-Han peoples from the north and west.
Sogdian; native of Sogdiana
Specifically refers to people from Sogdiana, an ancient Iranian civilization in Central Asia. Used in historical contexts.
In Silk Road trade, the Sogdians (胡人) played an important role.