Chechens (Chechen: Hохчи Noxçi; old-Chechen: Nakhchu, Nakhchij, Nakhch Qam) constitute the largest native ethnic group originating in the North Caucasus region. They refer to themselves as Noxçi (singular Noxçi or Noxço). Also known as Sadiks (Isod people), Gargareans, Malkhs (Malkhoi). The isolated mountain terrain of the Caucasus and the strategic value outsiders have placed on the areas settled by Chechens has contributed much to the Chechen community ethos and helped shape national character. Chechen and Ingush peoples are collectively known as the Vainakh.

The term "Chechen" is ultimately believed to derive from the Iranian name for the Noxçi and it first occurs in Arabic sources from the 8th century. According to popular tradition, the Russian term "Chechen" comes from the name of the village of Chechen-Aul, where the Chechens defeated Russian soldiers in 1732. The word "Chechen", however, occurs in Russian sources as early as 1692 and the Russians probably derived it from the Kabardian "Shashan".In Greek mythology Chechens known as Gargareans (Gergereans), in Armenian history they were mentioned as Nakhchamateans but Georgians know them as Dzurdzuks, Kists and Tsanars.