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Swahili etymological dictionary

Page history last edited by Mundialecter 12 years, 9 months ago

SWAHILI DICTIONARY

[with etymologies]

compiled by Andras Rajki 

2005

A

abiri [from Ara cabara] = cross, travel v.

abudu [from Ara cabada] = worship v.

acha [Her yaha, Kon lasa, Sot lahla, Ven lata, Zul lahla, from PBan *dac-] = leave v.

achama [Bem asama, Gan asama, Kik athania, Ven atama, Xho akhama, PBan *jacam-] = open mouth v.

ada [from Ara ada] = performance; care; fee

adabu [from Ara adab] = manners

adha [from Ara adha] = annoyance

adhana [from Ara adhan] = call to prayer

adhuhuri [from Ara al dhuhr] = the midday

adili [from Ara cadil] = just adj.

adui [from Ara cadw] = enemy

afa [from Ara afa] = calamity

afu [from Ara cafw] = amnesty; deliverance

afya [from Ara cafya] = health

afyuni [from Ara afyun from Gre opion] = opium

aga [Her raya, Kon ilaga, San laga, Sot laya, Ven laya, Zul laya, from PBan *dag-] = leave, abandon v.

agana [Gan lagaana, Mwe lagana, from PBan *dagaan-] = agree v.

agiza [Gan lagira, from PBan *dagid-] = order, direct, admonish v.

agua [Gan lagula, Kik ragura, from PBan *dagud-] = divine, charm v.

ahadi [from Ara cahd] = accord, contract

ahera [from Ara akhira] = next world

ahidi [Arab ahada] = promise v.

ahsante [from Ara ahsanta] = well done, bravo

aibu [from Ara cayb] = disgrace

ajabu [from Ara cajab] = wonder

ajali [from Ara ajal] = fate

ajili [from Ara ajli] = sake

ajiri [from Ara ajara] = rent, hire v.

ajizi [from Ara cajz] = weakness

aka [Bem mwaka, Kik aka, Sot aga (ngwaga), Tsw aga, Zul akha, from PBan *jak-] = build, work as mason v.

ake [Benda akwe, Kik ake, Ven we, Zul khe, from Ban] = his

akili [from Ara caql] = mind, sense

ala [from Ara ala] = tool

alama [from Ara calama] = mark, sign

alasiri [from Ara al casr] = the afternoon

alfajiri [from Ara al fajr] = the daybreak

alhamisi [Kik aramithi from Ban from Ara al khamisi 'the fifth'] = Thursday

alika [from PBan *dad-] = crack v.

alika [from PBan *daadik-] = invite v.

allah [from Ara allah] = god

almasi [Kik aramathi from Ban from Ara almas from Gre adamas] = diamond

amali [from Ara camal] = action

amana [from Ara amana] = pledge

amani [from Ara aman] = peace

amara [from Ara amr] = business

amba [see ambia] = that, who

amba [from PBan *jamb-] = slander, abuse v.

ambia [Bem amba, Lub amba, Ven amba, Zul amba, from PBan *gamb-] = speak, tell v.

ambua [Gan ambulula, Zul ambula, from PBan *jambud-] = peel off v.

ambukiza [from PBan *jambukid-] = spread, infect v.

amini [from Ara] = believe v.

amka [Kik ramuka, from PBan *damuk-] = get up, wake v.

amri [from Ara] = command

amua [Che lamula, Gan lamula, from PBan *damud-] = arbitrate, judge v.

amwa [Lub amua, Ven damu, from PBan *jamu-] = suckle v.

andama [Dua anda, Her randa, Lin landa, Sot latela, Zul landa, from PBan *dand-] = follow v.

andika [Gan wandika, Kik andika, Mwe andika, Rwa andika, from PBan *jandik-] = write v.

anga [see angaa; Zul langa] = sky, light n.

angaa [Lub anga, from PBan *dangad-] = shine, light; open; clear v.

angalia [from PBan *dangadi-] = look, care, pay attention v.

angavu [see angaa] = shining, light, clear adj.

angika [from PBan *jangik-] = hang up v.

anika [Bem anika, Gan anika, Her nyaneka, Kik anika, Kon anika, Lub anika, Mwe anikila, San yanika, Sot anega, Ven enetshedza, from PBan *janik-] = spread, put out to dry v.

anua [see anika; Ven anea] = take in from rain v.

anwani [from Ara cunwan] = title, address

anza [Lub anza, Mwe andya, from PBan *jand(i)-] = begin v.

apa [Bem lapa, from PBan *dap-] = swear v.

arabuni [from Ara carabun] = deposit, guarantee

ardhi [from Ara ardh] = soil, ground

arifu [from Ara carafa] = inform v.

aroba [from Ara arbac] = four

arobaini [from Ara arbacin] = forty

arusi [from Ara carusi] = wedding

asali [from Ara casal] = honey

asante [see ahsante; Bem santi] = thanks

ashiki [from Ara cashq] = desire

ashiria [from Ara ashara] = give a sign v.

asili [from Ara asl] = origin

askari [Kik muthigari from Ban from Ara caskar from Lat exercitus] = soldier

askofu [Kik muthikabu from Ban from Ara askuf from Gre episkopos] = bishop

asubuhi [from Ara al subh] = the morning

athari [from Ara athar] = mark, blemish

aula [from Ara awla] = first

auni [from Ara cawn] = help

awali [from Ara awwal] = first

aya [from Ara aya] = verse

azali [from Ara azali] = eternal

azima [Bem ashima, Sot adima, Tsw adima, Ven adzima, from PBan *jadim-] = borrow v.

azima [from Ara cazima] = talisman

azizi [from Ara caziz] = valued, dear

B

baa [see balaa] = calamity

baa [from Eng] = bar n. 

baada [from Ara bacad] = after 

baadhi [from Ara bacadhi] = some

baba [Kik baba, Mwe vava, Sho baba, Ven baba, Zul baba, from PBan *baba] = father

badala [from Ara badal] = substitute

bafta [from Ara bafta from Per] = calico

bahari [from Ara bahr] = sea

bahasha [Gan basa, Kik mbahaca, Rwa bahasha] = envelope

bahati [Mwe bahati from Per bakht] = luck

bahili [from Ara bakhil] = miser

baina [from Ara bayn] = between

bakshishi [from Ara baqshish from Per] = tip

bakuli [Kik mbakuri, Mwe ibakuli, Rwa bakure] = bowl, dish, basin

balaa [from Ara bala] = calamity

balehe [from Ara balagha] = reach (puberty) v.

balozi [Kik baruthi from Per balyuz] = consul; ambassador; governor

balungi [from Per] = pomelo

bamba [Zul bamba, from PBan *bamb-] = hold v.

banda [Kik kibanda from Gre mandra from Skt manda] = shed, barn

bandari [from Ara bandar from Per] = port

bandika [from PBan *bandik-] = stick v.

bandua [from PBan *bandud-] = strip, tear v.

bangi [Kik bangi, Sot patshe, Ven mbanzhe from Hin bhang] = hemp

barabara [Lin balabala, Mwe ibalabala from Per] = road, highway

barafu [from Per barf] = ice

baraka [from Ara baraka] = blessing

baraza [Lin barza, mbalasa, Lub balasa, from Ban] = veranda

baridi [from Ara barid] = cold

barua [Kik marua, Rwa baruwa, from Ban] = letter, note

baruti [Bem maluti, Kik mbaruti from Ban from Ara barut from Gre pyrotes] = gunpowder

bashiri [from Ara bashara] = bring news v.

basi [Che basi, Kik mbathi, Zul bhasi from Ban from Eng] = bus

bastola [Kik mbathitora from Ban from Por pistola] = pistol

bata [Bem ibata, Kik mbata, Lin libata, Lub bata, Mwe mbata, Rwa bata from Ban from Ara bat] = duck

bati [Bem mbata, Kik ibati, Mwe ibati, from Ban] = tin (sheets for roof)

batili [from Ara batal] = void adj.

bawa [Fan fap, Lub papa, puapua, Rwa baba, Umb vava, Ven lufhafha, from PBan *papa] = wing

bawabu [from Ara bawwab] = doorkeeper

baya [Mwe vaya, from Ban] = bad

beba [Sot pepa, Ven beba, Zul beba, from PBan *beb-] = carry child v.

bega [Bem kubeya, Che phewa, Gan bega, Lub veka, Mwe ivega, Nya phewa, from PBan *bega] = shoulder

bei [Kik mbei from Ban] = price, cost

bem [from PBan *bemb-] = entice, seduce v.

bendera [Che mbendera, Kik mbendera, Rwa bendera from Ban from Por] = flag, banner

benki [Kik bengi from Ban from Eng] = bank

beteri [Kik mbeteri from Ban from Eng] = battery

biashara [Kik ubiacara from Ban from Ara] = commerce

bibi [Kik bibi from Ban] = lady

bichi [Bem bishi, Kik ithi, Lub bishi, Mwe visi, Rwa bisi, Sho mbishi, Sot lebese, Ven vhisi, Zul bisi, from PBan *bici] = raw, unripe

biga [Fan vii, from PBan *bega] = pot (earthenware beer-pot)

bikari [from Ara birkar from Per pirkar] = compass

bikira [Rwa bikira from Ban from Ara bikr] = virgin

bila [from Ara bila] = without

bilauri [Gan rawuli, Kik mbirauri, Lub laudi, Rwa rahuri from Ban from Ara billur from Gre beryllion] = crystal, glass

bilingani [Che biringanya, Gan biringanya from Ban from Ara badhinjan from Per] = eggplant

bin [from Ara bin] = son

binti [from Ara bint] = daughter

birika [Kik mbirika from Ban from Ara birka] = pond; kettle

bivu [Kik iru, Ven vhibva, from PBan *bidu] = ripe

bizari [from Ara bizr] = seed, corn (of pepper etc.)

blanketi [Bem bulangeti, Kik murengeti from Ban from Eng] = blanket

blausi [Kik kaburauthi from Ban from Eng] = blouse

boga [Rwa boga, from PBan *boga] = pumpkin

boma [Kik mboma, from Ban] = fort

bomba [Kik mbomba from Por] = pump

bomoa [from PBan *bomud-] = break v.

bonde [Rwa bande, Sangu band-, from PBan *banda] = valley

bovu [Bem bola, Kik oru, Lub bola, Mwe vola, from PBan *bod-] = rotten v.

bubu [Mwe mumu, from PBan *bubu] = dumb

buibui [Bem bube, Kik mbumbui, Sot bobi, Tsw bobi, Ven buvhi, from PBan *buibui or *bubi] = spider

buluu [Gan bbululu, Kik bururu, Mwe vululu, Rwa ruru, Sho bhuruu from Ban from Eng] = blue

bumba [see umba; Bem ibumba, Kik kiumbwa] = lump, cluster, swarm

bunduki [Lin bondoki from Ban from Ara bunduq from Gre pontikos] = gun, rifle

bungu [Sot seboko, Ven luvhungu, vungu, Zul bungu, from PBan *bungu] = insect (boring)

buni [Kik mbuni from Ban from Ara bunn from Eth] = coffee beans

buni [from Ara bana] = build; invent v.

burashi [Kik mburaci, Zul bhulashi from Ban from Eng] = brush

busara [from Ara basira] = prudence

bustani [from Ara bustan from Per] = garden

busu [from Ara basa] = kiss v.

buu [see bungu] = grub, maggot

buyu [from PBan *pudo] = calabash

bwana [Kik bwana from either Per ban or rather Ara abuna 'our father'] = master

C

cha [Bem ca, Gan kya, Her tkha, Kik kia, Kon khya, San kha, Sot masa, Ven tsha, Zul hla, sa, from PBan *ke(a)] = dawn v.

chacha [from PBan *cac-] = ferment, go sour v.

chache [from PBan *keekee] = few

chagua [Che sankhula, Her hora, Kon sagula, Lub sungula, Mwe sagula, San hagula, Sot hlaola, Ven taula, from PBan *caagud-] = pick, choose v.

chai [Gan cayi, Kik cai, Rwa ayi from Ban from Ara shay from Chi] = tea

chakula [see la 'eat'; Bem cakulya, Che chakudya, Nya chakudya] = food

chambo [Ven vhuanzwo, from PBan *jambo] = bait

chana [Kik canura, Lin sanola, from PBan *can-] = comb v.

chandalua [Bem candaluwa, from Ban] = mosquito net

changa [Bem sanga, Dua sanga, Gan sanga, Her hanga, Kon sangana, Lub sangana, Mwe sanga, Sot hlakanya, Ven tangana, Zul hlangana, hlangabeza, from PBan *cang-] = collect, assemble v.

changamka [from PBan *cangamuk-] = pleased, cheerful v.

changanya [see changa] = mix v.

chanuo [see chana; Kik gicanuro] = comb n.

chapa [Kik caba from Ban from Hin chap] = print n.

chatu [Bem lusato, Mwe nsato, Sot hlware, Tsw tlhware, Ven tharu, Xho tlwathi, Zul hlathu, from PBan *cato] = python

checha [from PBan *ceec-] = cut (into small pieces) v.

cheche [Bem lusase, Mwe isasi, Sot hlase, Ven thase, from PBan *cece] = spark

cheka [Bem seka, Gan seka, Her nyeka, Kik theka, Kon seka, Lin seka, Lub seka, Mwe seka, Nya seka, Rwa seka, San hekha, Sho seka, Sot sega, Tsw tshega, Ven sea, Zul hleka, from PBan *cek-] = laugh v.

chekecha [from PBan *cec-] = sift v.

cheki [Kik ceki from Ban from Eng] = cheque

chelewa [see cha; Gan ceerewa] = late v.

chemua [Bem tesemuna, Gan asimula, Sot ethimola, Xho thimla, Zul ethimula, Ven atsamula, from PBan *tiemud-] = sneeze v.

cheo [from PBan *jedo] = rank, measure

cheti [from Eng from Hin citthi] = chit, note n.

chemka [Gan camuka, Kik camukia, from PBan *camuk-] = boil, bubble v.

cherehani [Kik cerehani] = sewing machine

cheza [Bem cila, Kik cetha, from PBan *jida] = play, dance v.

chimba [Bem imba, Gan simba, Kik cimba, Mwe simba, Sot epa, Zul mba, from PBan *cimb-] = dig, hoe v.

chindi [Ven tshisindi, from PBan *cindi] = squirrel

chini [see nchi and ni 'place'] = below

chinja [Bem cinja, Kik thinja, Zul hlinza, from PBan *cenj-] = slaughter v.

chocha [Ven toda, tota, Sot hlotla, Zul hlohla, from PBan *cooc-] = prod, probe v.

choka [Zul shuka, from PBan *cok-] = tire out v.

chokaa [Kik cokaa from Ban from Eng] = chalk, lime

chokoa [Gan sokola, Sot hlogo, Ven thoho, Xho hloko, tloko, Zul hloko, from PBan *cokuud-] = pull out, pick out, poke out v.

choma [Bem soma, Sot hloma, Ven toma, Zul hloma, from PBan *com-] = pierce, stab, prick v.

chombo [from PBan *jombo] = boat, vessel

chomoa [Ven tomola, from PBan *comud-] = draw out, pull out, poke out v.

chonga [Dua songa, Her honga, Kon songa, from PBan *cong-] = cut (into shape), carve, pare, sharpen v.

chongoa [Gan songola, from PBan *congud-] = cut to point, sharpen v.

choo [Kik kioro] = faeces; lavatory, urinal, cesspit

choroa [Kik coroa] = oryx

chovya [Kik coria, from PBan *dub-] = dip v.

chubua [from PBan *cub-] = graze, rub v.

chuguu [Nwezi gulu, from PBan *gudu] = ant-hill, ant-heap

chui [Dua ndyo, Her ongwe, Lin nkoi, Mwe suvi, Sot nkwe, Umb ngue, nzhui, Ven nngwe, Zul ngwe, from PBan *cubi] = leopard

chuja [Sot hlotla, Ven tuda, Zul hluza, from PBan *cuuj-] = filter v.

chukia [from PBan *cok-] = dislike v.

chuma [Gan kyuma, Mwe chuma, Nko ekyoma, Rwa ichyuma, Sangu ishoma, from PBan *cuma] = iron

chuma [from PBan *cum-] = earn, gain, trade, buy food v.

chumba [see nyumba; Kik kanyumba, Mwe chumba, Rwa umba] = room

chumvi [Kik cumbi] = salt

chuna [from PBan *cun-] = skin, take off v.

chunga [from PBan *cung-] = look after, shepherd v.

chunga [Kik cunga, Kon sungula, Mwe yunga, Zul hlunga, from PBan *cung-] = sift v.

chungu [Zul hlungu, from PBan *cungu] = bitter, painful

chungu [Bem nongo, Dua wongo, Her onyungu, Mwe nungu, Ven dzungu, Zul ngungu, from PBan *jungu] = pot

chupa [Gan cupa, Her onjupa, Kik cuba, Lub supa, Mwe suha, Rwa cupa, from PBan *cupa] = jar, bottle

chura [Bem cula, Che chule, Kik kiura, Mwe chula, Nya chule, Sot tlola, Ven dula, Zul dlula, from PBan *juda] = frog

chwa [Kik thua, Zul hlwa, from PBan *co] = set (sun) v.

D

daawa [from Ara dacwa] = lawsuit

dada [Zul dade] = sister

daftari [from Ara daftar from Per] = account-book, register

dafina [from Ara dafina] = treasure

dai [from Ara daca] = claim

daima [from Ara daim] = always, constantly, continuing

dakika [Gan dakika, Kik ndagika, Rwa dakika from Ban from Ara daqiqa] = minute

daktari [Bem ndokotala, Kik ndagitari, Zul dokotela from Ban from Eng] = doctor

dalali [from Ara dallal] = broker

dalasini [from Ara dar al sini] = cinnamon

dalili [from Ara dalil] = sign

damu [from Ara dam] = blood

daraja [from Ara daraja] = steps

darasa [from Ara dars] = class, lesson

dari [from Per] = ceiling

darubini [Kik ndarubini, Rwa durubindi from Ban from Ara darbin from Per durbin] = telescope

dau [from Ara dhaw] = dhow

dawa [Kik ndawa from Ban from Ara dawa] = medicine, drug

debe [Bem itepe, Mwe idebe from Hin] = tin, can

dengu [Kik ndengu] = lentils

deni [from Ara dain] = debt

dereva [Gan dereva, Kik ndereba from Ban from Eng] = driver

desturi [from Ara dastur from Per] = custom

dhabihu [from Ara dhabh] = sacrifice

dhahabu [Gan zabu, Kik thahabu, Mwe zahabu from Ban from Ara dhahab] = gold

dhahiri [from Ara dhahir] = evident

dhaifu [from Ara dhacif] = weak

dhakari [from Ara dhakar] = penis

dhalimu [from Ara dhalim] = unjust

dhamana [from Ara dhamana] = surety

dhambi [from Ara dhanb] = sin

dhamiri [from Ara dhamir] = conscience

dhara [from Ara dharra] = harm

dhihaka [from Ara dhahika] = ridicule

dhiki [from Ara dhayq] = distress

dhili [from Ara dhalla] = humiliate v.

dhoruba [from Ara dharb] = blow n.

dia [from Ara diya] = ransom

dibaji [from Ara dibaja] = preface

didimia [from PBan *didimid-] = sink v.

dini [Kik ndini from Ban from Ara din] = religion

dira [Kik ndira from Per daira from Ban from Ara daira 'circle'] = compass

dirisha [Kik ndirica, Lub didisha, Mwe indilisha, Rwa dirishya from Per dariche] = window

divai [Bem ndifai, Kik ndibei, Sot tsefa, Ven difha] = wine

diwani [from Ara diwan from Per] = counsillor

dobi [Kik ndubi from Hin dobi] = washerman

dogo [from PBan *dodo] = small

dola [from Ara dawla] = government

doria [from Ara dawriya] = patrol

dua [from Ara duca] = prayer

duara [from Ara dawra] = circle

dubu [Kik ndubu from Ban from Ara dubb] = bear n.

dudu [from Ara dud] = worm

duka [Gan duka, Kik nduka, Mwe duka from Ban from Ara dukkan] = shop

duni [from Ara duna] = low, inferior

dunia [from Ara dunya] = world

dutu [Mwe duta] = wart, pimple

E

eda [from Ara cidda] = counting; days of mourning

edashara [from Ara wahda cashara] = eleven

egama [from PBan *yegam-] = lean v.

ekundu [Zul nsundu, from PBan *kundu] = red

elea [Her yera, yerekera, Kon ela, gela, Mwe ela, San jela, Sot seetsa, eletsa, Umb yela, from PBan *jed-] = clear v.

elea [Bem elela, Kik reria, Mwe elela, from PBan *ded-] = float v.

eleka [Her vereka, Sot belega, Zul beleka, from PBan *bedik-] = carry v.

eleza [see elea] = clarify, explain v.

elfu [from Ara alf] = thousand

elimu [from Ara cilm] = knowledge

ema [Kikerebe zima, from PBan *juam-] = good v.

embe [Bem iyembe, Kik riembe, Gan yembe, from PBan *jembe] = mango

enda [Bem enda, Che yenda, Dua enda, Gan genda, Her yenda, Kik genda, Kon enda, Lub enda, Nya yenda, Rwa genda, San jenda, Sho enda, Sot eta, Umb enda, Ven enda, Zul enda, from PBan *jend-] = go, travel, fare v.

enea [from PBan *jan(i)-] = spread v.

engua [Bem vengula, Kik engura, Lub engula, Mwe engula, Zul engula, from PBan *jengud-] = skim v.

enu [Bem -enu, Lub enu, from PBan *nu] = your

enye [see mwenye; Ven -ne] = having

enyewe [see mwenye] = self

epa [from PBan *jep-] = avoid v.

erevu [see eleza] = cunning

etu [Bem esu, Kik itu, Lub etu] = our

eupe [see elea 'clear'; Mwe pe, Ven tshena] = white

eusi [Kik iru, from PBan *jidu] = black

F

fa [Bem fwa, Gan fwa, Kik kua, Kon fwa, Lin kufa, Lub fua, Mwe fa, Rwa gupfa, San fwa, Sho fa, Sot hwa, Tsw swa, Umb fa, Ven fa, ifa, Zul fa, from PBan *ku-] = die v.

faa [see nafuu] = useful v.

fadhaa [from Ara fadhaca] = disgust, dismay

fadhili [from Ara fadhl] = favour, kindness

fagia [Bem pyanga, Her pyanga, Kon phyagila, Mwe pyagula, San fyajila, Sot swiela, Tsw feela, Ven swiela, from PBan *piagid-] = sweep v.

fahali [from Ara fahl] = stallion, bull

fahamu [from Ara fahama] = understand v.

fahari [from Ara fakhar] = honour, splendour

faharisi [from Ara fihris from Per fehrest] = index

faida [from Ara fayda] = profit

faini [Kik baini from Ban from Eng] = fine n.

fali [from Ara fal] = good omen

fanana [Dua wana, Her sana, Kik huana, Kon fwana, Lub fuana, San khwana, Sot Tsw, Tsw tshwana, Zul fana, from PBan *puan-] = resemble v.

fanusi [from Ara fanus from Gre] = lantern

faradhi [from Ara faridha] = duty, obligation

faragha [from Ara faragh] = leisure; seclusion

faraja [from Ara faraj] = joy; consolation

faraka [from Ara firqa] = party, division

faranga [from Por franga from Ara farruj] = chicken

farasi [Lin farasa, Gan balasi, Kik mbarathi, Mwe falasi from Ban from Ara faras] = horse

farisi [from Ara faris] = hero; expert

faru [see kifaru; Kik kibaru] = tank, armored car

fasaha [from Ara fasaha] = eloquence

fasiki [from Ara fasiq] = immoral person

fasiri [from Ara fasara] = interpret v.

fataki [Per fesh-feshak] = rocket, firecracker

fatiha [from Ara fatih] = opening prayer

faulu [from Ara fala] = have good omen, succeed v.

fedha [Gan ffeza from Ban from Ara fidha] = silver

fedheha [from Ara fadhiha] = shame

feleji [Kik muberethi from Per puladh] = steel; pipe

feli [from Ara ficl] = act n.

ficha [Bem fisa, Kik hitha, Kon fisa, Mwe visa, San fiha, Sot fihla, Tsw fitlha, Ven swita, Xho fihla, Zul fihla, sisa, from PBan *pic-] = hide v.

fidhuli [from Ara fudhuli] = curious, insolent

fidia [from Ara fidya] = ransom

figo [Bem lufyo, Che impsyo, Gan sigo, Her osyoti, Kik higo, Kon ulufigo, Lub fio, Mwe mfigo, Rwa pyiko, Sho itsvo, Sot pshio, Tsw philo, Ven tswio, Xho tso, Zul nso, from PBan *pigo] = kidney

fika [Bem fika, Che fika, Her seka, Kon fika, Lub fika, Mwe shika, Nya fika, San fikha, Sot fihla, Ven swika, Zul fika, from PBan *pik-] = arrive v.

fikara [from Ara fikr] = thought

fikicha [see pekecha] = rub v.

filimbi [Kik thirimbi, Lub fidimbi] = whistle n.

filisi [from Ara falasa] = bankrupt v.

fimbo [from PBan *pimbo] = cane, stick

finga [Zul finga, from PBan *ping-] = protect by charms v.

finya [Zul finyela, from PBan *pini-] = pinch, squeeze v.

fisadi [from Ara fasid] = corrupt person

fisi [Kik hiti, Mwe mbiti, Sot phiri, Tsw phiri, Xho pisi, Zul phisi, from PBan *piti] = hyena

fisidi [from Ara fasada] = corrupt v.

fitina [from Ara fitna] = discord

foka [from Ara faqa] = burst v.

forodha [from Ara furdha; see faradhi] = duty, custom

fua [Bem fula, Dua lule, Her tura, Kik tura, Lub fula, Mwe sula, Rwa cura, Sot rula (mothudi, morudi), Tsw mothudi, Ven fula, from PBan *tud-] = work (iron), forge, smith v.

fua [see fua; Kik hura] = wash clothes v.

fuga [Kon funga, Sot rua, Ven fuwa, Zul fuya, from PBan *cung-] = tend, keep (cattle) v.

fukara [from Ara faqir] = poor person

fukia [Bem fukila, Gan oteza, Lub fuka, from PBan *jokid-] = smoke v.

fuko [from PBan *puko] = dig n.

fuko [see fuko 'dig'; Bem mfuko, Kik huko, Ven pfuko] = mole

fukua [Lub fukula, Rwa pfukura, from PBan *pukud-] = dig up, dig out, uncover v.

fukuto [Zul juluka, from PBan *duku] = sweat n.

fulana [Kik burana from Ban from Eng] = flannel, vest, cardigan

fulani [from Ara fulan] = so and so

fuma [Fan tsim, Kik tuma, Lub fuma, Sot ruma, from PBan *tum-] = sew, knit, weave v.

fumba [Bem fumbata, Kik humba, Kon fumba, Sot hupara, Zul fumbatha, from PBan *kumb-] = close, cover v.

fumbata [see fumba] = grasp v.

funda [Zul funda, from PBan *kund-] = gulp v.

funda [Bem funda, Kon funda, San funda, Sot ithuta (ruta), Ven funza, Zul funda, from PBan *tund-] = teach, instruct v.

fundi [see funda; Kik bundi] = craftsman, artisan

fundika [see kifundo; Gan fundika, Kik kundika] = make a knot v.

fundo [Bem cifundo, Kik ikundo, Mwe igundo, Sot lehuto, Ven pfundo, Zul findo, from PBan *kundo] = knot

funga [Dua longa, Her tunga, Kik hinga, Kon thunga, Lin funga, Mwe tunga, Rwa funga, Sot roka, Ven runga, Zul thunga, funga, from PBan *tung-] = tie, close, fasten, sew, string v.

fungate [from PBan *pungati] = seven; a seven-day period

fungo [Bem mfungo, from PBan *tungo] = civet

fungua [Kik hingura, Lin fungola, from PBan *tungud-] = untie, open v.

funika [Kik kunika, from PBan *kunik-] = cover v.

funua [Kik kunura, from PBan *kunud-] = uncover v.

fupi [Bem ipi, Kik kuhi, Lub ipi, Mwe guhi, San fupi, Sot khutso-, Ven pfufhi, Zul fuphi, from PBan *kupi] = short, low

furaha [from Ara farha] = joy

futa [Bem futa, Kik hura, Mwe futa, Ven huta, from PBan *kut-] = wipe, scour v.

futa [see vuta; Dua kulumane, Kik ruta, Sot khuruma] = unsheathe v.

fuzi [Fan tsil, from PBan *tudi] = shoulder

fyonza [from PBan *piont-] = suck v.

G

gamba [from PBan *gamba] = bark, scale, scab 

ganda [Bem nkanda, Ven ganda, from PBan *kanda] = shell, skin, peel 

ganda [from PBan *gand-] = coagulate v.

ganga [Bem nganga, Dua bwanga, Gan ganga, Her onganga, Kon unganga, Lin monganga, Lub nganga, Mwe ganga, Rwa ganga, Sot ngaka, Tsw ngaka, Umb ganga, Ven nanga, Zul anga, nyanga, from PBan *gang-] = heal, treat v.

gao [from PBan *gado] = handful

gari [Che gali, Gan gali, Kik ngari, Lub kalu, Nya gali, Rwa gari from Hin gari] = cart, vehicle

gati [from Hin ghat] = landing gate

gauni [Zul gawuni from Ban from Eng] = gown

gawa [Dua aba, Fan koo, Kik gaya, Kon yava, Mwe gava, Sho gova, Sot aba, Ven avha, Zul aba, from PBan *gab-] = divide, share v.

gazeti [Rwa gazeti from Eng from Fre gazette] = magazine

gego [Kik igego, Rwa jigo, Ven dzeu, from PBan *gego] = tooth, molar

gereji [Kik ngereci from Ban from Eng] = garage

gereza [Rwa gereza from Por igreja 'church' from Gre ekklesia] = prison

geuka [Kik garika, from PBan *gaduk-] = turn v.

geuza [Kik gariura, Mwe galula, from PBan *gadud-] = turn v.

ghadabu [from Ara ghadhab] = anger

ghafula [from Ara ghafla] = careless; suddenly

ghairi [from Ara ghayr] = beyond, without

ghali [from Ara ghali] = expensive

ghamu [from Ara ghamm] = grief

gharama [Kik ngarama from Ban from Ara gharama] = cost, expense

gharika [from Ara ghariqa 'sink v.'] = flood

ghofira [from Ara ghafra] = pardon, absolution

giza [from PBan *jidia] = dark n.

gogo [Kik mugogo, from PBan *gogo] = log

gololi [from Per gulule] = marbles

goma [from PBan *gom-] = strike, revolt v.

gomba [from PBan *jomb-] = contradict, quarrel v.

goti [Sot khuru] = knee

gudi [from Hin godi] = dock n.

gugumiza [from PBan *gugumid-] = stammer v.

guguna [Mwe gegena, Tsw kokona, from PBan *gugun-] = gnaw v.

gumba [Bem ngumba, Lub kumba, Mwe gumba, Sot moopa, Ven nyumba, Zul nyumba, from PBan *gumba] = sterile, barren

gumu [Bem uma, Gan guma, Kik umu, Kon uma, San yuma, Sho oma, Sot oma, Ven oma, Zul oma, from PBan *gum-] = hard, solid

guna [from PBan *gun-] = rumble, grunt v.

gunia [Kik mgunia from Hin gona] = sack

gushu [Kik ngucu, from Ban] = vulture

H

habari [from Ara khabar] = news 

habeshi [from Ara habashi] = Ethiopian

hadaa [from Ara khadca] = trick, cheat v.

hadhari [from Ara hadhar] = caution

hadithi [from Ara hadith] = news, story

hafifu [from Ara khafif] = light, easy

hai [from Ara hayy] = alive

haiba [from Ara hayba] = noble bearing

haja [from Ara haja] = need, request

haji [from Ara hajj] = pilgrimage

haki [from Ara haqq] = justice, law

hakika [from Ara haqiqa] = truth

hakimu [from Ara hakim] = judge, ruler, governor

halaiki [from Ara halq] = people, crowd

halali [from Ara halal] = lawful

hali [from Ara hal] = state, position

halifu [from Ara khalafa] = disobey, rebel v.

hamaki [from Ara hamaqa] = angry v.

hamali [from Ara hammal] = porter

hamamu [from Ara hammam] = hot bath

hamira [from Ara khamir] = dough, yeast

hamsini [from Ara khamsin] = fifty

handaki [from Ara khandaq from Per] = trench

hapa [see pa 'on'; Kik haha] = here

hara [from Ara kharia] = empty (bowels) v.

haraka [from Ara haraka] = move v.

haramia [from Ara haramiya] = bandit

haramu [from Ara haram] = unlawful

harara [from Ara harara] = heat, fever

hari [from Ara harr] = heat

haribu [from Ara kharaba] = ruin, destroy v.

hariri [Kik hariri from Ban from Ara harir] = silk

harufu [from Ara hirif] = pungent

hasa [from Ara khass] = special

hasara [Kik athara from Ara khasara] = loss, damage

hata [from Ara hata] = until

hatamu [from Ara khitam] = bridle

hatari [from Ara khatar] = danger

hatia [from Ara khata] = sin, guilt

hatima [from Ara khatm] = end n.

hawa [from Ara hawa] = desire

haya [from Ara haya] = shame, modesty

hayawani [from Ara haywan] = animal

hazina [from Ara khazna] = treasury

hedaya [from Ara hadia] = gift

hedhi [from Ara haydh] = menstruation

hekalu [Kik hekaru, Rwa hekaru from Ban from Ara haykal] = statue, temple, synagogue

hekaya [from Ara hikaya] = story, legend

hekima [from Ara hikma] = wisdom

hema [Kik hema from Ban from Ara khayma] = tent

heri [from Ara khayr] = goodness, benefit

herufi [from Ara harf] = sign, character, letter

hesabu [Kik ithabu from Ban from Ara hisab] = account, number

hewa [from Ara hawa] = air

hiari [from Ara khiyar] = choice, option

hidi [from Ara hada] = guide, convert v.

hifadhi [from Ara hafidha] = protect v.

himaya [from Ara himaya] = protection

himidi [from Ara hamida] = praise v.

hirizi [from Ara hirz] = amulet

hisa [from Ara hisa] = share n.

hizi [from Ara khizi] = shame, disgrace

hofu [from Ara khawf] = fear n.

hoja [from Ara hujja] = dispute

homa [Kik homa, Mwe homa from Ban from Ara humma] = fever

hospitali [Kik thibitari from Ban from Eng] = hospital

hotuba [from Ara khutba] = sermon

huba [from Ara hubb] = love n.

hudhuri [from Ara hudhur] = presence

huduma [from Ara khidma] = service

hukumu [from Ara hukm] = order, judgement

hulka [from Ara khulq] = character, nature

huluku [from Ara khalaqa] = create v.

huru [from Ara hurr] = free

husudu [from Ara hasad] = envy

hususa [from Ara khususi] = special

huzuni [from Ara huzn] = grief

I

iba [Bem iba, Che ba, Dua iba, Fan zii, Gan bba, Kik iya, Kon iva, Lin yiba, Lub iba, Mwe iva, Nya ba, Sho ba, Sot utswa, Tsw utswa, Ven tswa, Xho ba, Zul eba, from PBan *jib-] = steal v.

ibada [from Ara cibada] = service, worship n.

ibilisi [from Ara iblis] = devil

idadi [from Ara cadad] = number

idara [from Ara idara] = direction, administration

idhini [from Ara idhn] = permission

idi [from Ara cid] = festival

iga [Sangu yik-, from PBan *jig-] = imitate v.

ijara [from Ara ijara] = hire, rent, wages

ijumaa [Kik njumaa from Ban from Ara jumca] = Friday

iktisadi [from Ara iqtisad] = economy

ilani [from Ara iclan] = announcement

imamu [from Ara imam] = priest

imani [from Ara iman] = faith

imba [Bem imba, Che yimba, Gan yimba, Her yimba, Kon imba, Lin yemba, Lub imba, Mwe imba, Nya yimba, Rwa ririmba, San lujimbo, Sho imba, Sot opela, Tsw opela, Umb imba, Xho ombela, from PBan *jimb-] = sing v.

imla [from Ara imla] = spelling

inama [Bem inama, Gan vunama, Kik inama, Lub inama, Mwe inama, Sot inama, from PBan *jinam-] = bow, bend, stoop, lean v.

inchi [Kik inji from Ban from Eng] = inch

ingi [Bem ingi, Gan nji, Her ingi, Kik ingi, Kon ingi, Lin mingi, Lub ngi, Nko ingi, Mwe ingi, Rwa nshi, San inji, Sho zhinji, Sot ntsi, Tsw ntsi, Ven nzhi, Xho ninzi, Zul ningi, from PBan *jingi] = much, many

ingia [Bem ingila, Dua ingea, Gan yingira, Kik ingira, Kon ingila, Lin yingela, Mwe ingila, Sot tsena, tsenya, Tsw tsena, Ven dzhena, Zul ngena, from PBan *jingid-] = enter v.

ini [Kik ini, Rugungu inihi] = innards; liver

injili [from Ara injil from Gre evangelion] = gospel

injini [Bem ingini, Sho injini, Zul injini from Ban from Eng] = engine

inuka [Bem inuka, Xho nyuka, Zul enyuka, from PBan *jinuk-] = rise v.

inzi [Bem lunshi, Dua ngingi, Her onde, Kik ngi, Lub njiji, Mwe isazi, Sho nhunzi, Sot ntshi, Tsw ntsi, Umb nyi, from PBan *gi] = fly n.

isha [Che tha, from PBan *cid-] = finish v.

ishara [from Ara ishara] = signal

ishi [from Ara casha] = live v.

ishirini [from Ara cishrina] = twenty

islamu [from Ara islam] = Islam

ita [Bem ita, Che itana, Gan yita, Kik ita, Lub ita, Mwe itana, Rwa ita, Zul etha, from PBan *jit-] = call v.

itika [Dua alabe, Gan yitaba, Her itavera, Kik itika, Kon ithika, Lub itaba, San yithikha, Sot araba, Tsw araba, Ven aravha, from PBan *jitik-] = answer (when called) v.

iva [Lub boba, from PBan *bob-] = ripe v.

J

ja [Dua ya, Gan jja, Her ya, Kon isa, Lin ya, Mwe iza, Rwa za, San yinza, Sho uya, Sot ya, Tsw ya, Umb eya, Ven da, Zul ya, from PBan *jija] = come v.

jaa [Sho zara, Sot tlala (letlala), Ven dala (daladala), Zul zala, from PBan *jaad-] = be full v.

jabali [from Ara jabal 'mountain'] = rocky prominence

jadili [from Ara jadala] = argue v.

jahazi [from Ara jihaz] = equipment, device; ship

jaji [Kik njanji from Ban from Eng] = judge n.

jalidi [from Ara jild] = leather; book cover; volume

jamaa [from Ara jamaca] = people, crowd; public, community, family

jamala [from Ara jamal] = beauty; courtesy

jambo [Fan am, from PBan *jambo] = affair, thing

jamhuri [from Ara jumhuri] = republic

jamii [from Ara jamica] = society, group, club, union, party

jamvi [Kik gicambi] = mat

jana [from PBan *jana] = yesterday

jani [see majani] = leaf n.

jaribu [from Ara jarraba] = test, try, examine v.

jasho [from PBan *doko] = sweat n.

jasiri [from Ara jasur] = bold, daring

jasisi [from Ara jasus] = spy

jawabu [from Ara jawab] = reply, answer, response

jehanum [from Ara jahannam] = hell

jela [Kik njera from Ban from Eng] = jail

jemadari [from Ara jamacadar] = officer

jembe [Kik icembe, Mwe igembe, Sot selepe, letshepe, Ven dzembe, Xho zembe, Zul lembe, zembe, from PBan *jembe] = hoe n.

jeneza [from Ara jinaza] = corpse; burial; bier

jenga [Mwe zenga, from PBan *jeng-] = build v.

jeraha [from Ara jarh] = injury, wound

jeshi [from Ara jaysh] = army

jibini [Kik njibini from Ban from Ara jubn] = cheese

jicho [Bem linso, Che diso, Dua diso, Fan ir, Gan iso, Her eho, Kik ritho, Lin liso, Lub so, Mwe liso, Rwa jisho, San liho, Sho ziso, Sot leihlo, Umb so, Ven ito, Xho so, Zul iso, from PBan *jico] = eye

jifya [Kik higa, Lub pia, Mwe figa, Ven tswia, from PBan *piga] = cooking-stone

jike [see mke] = female animal

jiko [Bem ishiko, Kik riko, Lub diko, Mwe liko, Rwa ziko, Zul ziko, from PBan *jiko] = hearth, fireplace, stove

jikoni [see iko and ni 'place'] = kitchen

jina [Bem ishina, Dua dina, Gan innya, Her ena, Lub dina, Mwe lina, Nya dzina, Rwa zina, Sot leina, Ven dzina, from PBan *jina] = name

jini [from Ara jinn] = genie

jinsi [from Ara jins from Gre genos] = kind, sort; how

jino [Bem lino, Gan innyo, Her eyo, Kon ilino, Lin lino, Lub dino, Mwe lino, Rwa inyo, Sho bata, Sot leino, Tsw leino, Ven ino, Zul zinyo, from PBan *jino] = tooth

jitu [see mtu] = giant

jiwe [Bem ibwe, Her ewe, Kon ilivwe, Lub bue, Mwe iwe, Rwa buye, Sot lebje, Umb eve, Ven ive, Xho tye, Zul tshe, from PBan *bue] = stone

johari [from Ara jawhar] = essence; jewel

joka [see nyoka] = snake

joko [see jiko] = kiln

jongoo [Bem ciyongolo, Zul shongololo, from PBan *jongodo] = millipede

joto [see ota] = fire, heat

jozi [from Ara jawz from Gre zeugon] = pair

jua [Bem ishiba, Che dziwa, Kon isi, Lin yeba, Sho ziva, Sot tseba, Ven divha, Zul azi, from PBan *jijib-] = know v.

jua [Bem kasuba, Dua loba, Her eyuva, Kik riua, Kon ilisuva, Lub diba, Mwe lyuva, Rwa zuba, San lijuva, Sho zuva, Ven duvha, from PBan *juba] = sun

juhudi [from Ara jahd] = effort; zeal

juma [see ijumaa] = week

jumamosi [see juma and moja] = Saturday

jumanne [see juma and nne; Kik njumanne] = Tuesday

jumapili [see juma and mbili; Kik njumambiri] = Sunday

jumatano [see juma and tano; Kik njumatano] = Wednesday

jumatatu [see juma and tatu; Kik njumatatu] = Monday

jumba [see nyumba] = large house

jumla [from Ara jumla] = sum, total; sentence

juu [Bem mulu, Kik iguru, Lub diulu (peulu), Rwa juru (hejuru), Sot tletlolo, Ven dulu (tadulu), Zul zulu (phezulu) , from PBan *gudu] = top, sky, upside, above

K

kaa [Bem ikala, Che khala, Dua ja, Her kara, Kik ikara, Lin zala, Lub kala, Sho gara, Sot sala, Umb sala, Ven sala, Zul sala, hlala, from PBan *jikad-] = sit, remain v.

kaa [Lub kala, Mwe mhala, Zul ngala, from PBan *kada] = crab

kaa [Dua dikala-, Her ekara, Kon ingala-, Lin makala, Lub kala, Mwe makala, Rwa kara, Sot legala, magala, Ven sala, from PBan *kada] = charcoal, coal, ember

kaanga [Bem kanga, Dua anga, Fan kang, Kik karanga, Kon khasinga, Lin kalanga, Mwe kalanga, Rwa karanga, Sho kanga, Sot gadika, Ven hadzinga, Zul gazinga, from PBan *kang- and *kadang-] = fry v.

kabati [Bem kabati, Kik kabati, Lub kapati, Rwa kabati, Zul khabhathi from Ban from Eng] = cupboard

kabila [Mwe kabila from Ban from Ara] = tribe

kabili [from Ara qabila] = face

kabla [from Ara qabl] = before, earlier

kaburi [Mwe kavuli from Ban from Ara qabr] = grave n.

kadha [from Ara kadha] = so, so and so

kadhi [from Ara qadhi] = judge, magistrate

kadiri [from Ara qadr] = amount, quantity; value; honor

kafara [from Ara kaffara] = repentance; sacrifice

kafi [Bem nkafi, Fan kap, from PBan *kapi] = paddle

kafiri [from Ara kafir] = infidel, unbeliever

kaga [from PBan *kag-] = protect by charms v.

kahaba [from Ara qahba] = prostitute

kahawa [Kik kahawa from Ban from Ara qahwa] = coffee

kaimu [from Ara qaym-maqam] = representative, agent

kalamu [Kik karamu, Rwa karamu from Ban from Ara qalam from Gre kalamos] = pen, pencil

kale [Bem kale, Lin kala, Lub kale, Mwe kale, from PBan *kade] = old times

kali [Bem kali, Kon khali, San khalala, Sot gale, Ven muhali, Zul khali, from PBan *kadi] = fierce, sharp, severe

kama [Bem kama, Che kama, Gan kama, Her kama, Kik kama, Kon khama, Nya kama, San khama, Sot gama, Ven ama, hama, Zul khama, from PBan *kam-] = squeeze out, milk v.

kamari [from Ara qumar] = gambling

kamata [from PBan *kamat- from Ara qamata] = tie up; seize v.

kamba [?] = rope

kambi [Kik kambi, Sho kamba, from PBan *kambi] = camp n.

kamili [from Ara kamil] = perfect

kamua [Gan kamula, from PBan *kamud-] = squeeze v.

kamusi [from Ara qamus from Gre okeanos 'ocean (of words)'] = dictionary

kana [Bem kana, Che kana, Her kana-, Kik kaana, Kon khana, Mwe kana, Rwa hana, San khana, Sot gana, Ven hana, from PBan *kaan-] = deny, rebuke; refuse v.

kanda [Bem kanda, Her kanda, Kik kanda, Mwe konda, Sot gata, Zul khanda, from PBan *kand-] = knead v.

kando [Rwa kandi] = beside

kanga [Bem ikanga, Dua kang, Her onganga, Kik nganga, Kon ilikhanga, Mwe mhanga, San likhanga, Sot kgaka, Umb kanga, Ven khanga, from PBan *kanga] = guinea-fowl

kanisa [Kik kanitha from Ban from Ara kanisa] = church; synagogue

kano [Kik ikano] = sinew

kanu [from PBan *kanu] = marten

kanuni [from Ara qanun from Gre kanon] = law, rule; principle

kanyaga [from PBan *kaany-] = trample v.

kao [see kaa 'sit'] = dwelling n.

kaputula [Bem kaputula, Che kabudula, Lub kaputula, Nya kabudula, Rwa kabutura] = shorts

karafuu [from Ara qaramfil from Gre karyophyllon] = cloves; carnation

karaha [from Ara karh] = disgust, detestation

karama [from Ara karama] = generosity

karanga [Kik ngaranga, Lin nkalanga, Mwe lukalanga, from PBan *kadanga] = groundnut

karani [Gan kalani, Kik karani] = clerk

karata [Bem kalata, Kik karata from Por carta from Gre khartes] = card

karatasi [Kik iratathi from Ban from Ara qartas from Gre khartes] = paper

karibu [from Ara qarib] = near

karimu [from Ara karim] = noble, generous

kariri [from Ara karara] = repeat, recite

karne [from Ara qarn] = horn; century

kasha [from Por caixa] = chest, box

kasi [from Ara qasi] = hard, forceful

kasidi [from Ara qasdi] = intentionally

kasiri [from Ara qasr 'failure' or kasr 'breach'] = anger

kasisi [Kik mugathithi from Ban from Ara qisis] = priest

kaskazi [from Ara] = north monsoon

kaskazini [see kaskazi and ni 'place'; Kik gathigathini] = north

kasuku [Kik gathuku, from PBan *cuku] = parrot

kaswende [from PBan *cuende] = syphilis

kata [Lin kata from Ban from Ara qataca] = cut

kataa [from Ara qatci] = decisive, final

kati [Bem kati, Gan wakati, Her opokati, Kik gatagati, Kon phakhathi, Lin kati, Mwe mgati, Rwa hagati, Sho mukati, Sot bogare, Tsw gare, bogare, Ven vhukati, Zul phakathi, from PBan *kati] = middle

katibu [from Ara katib] = scribe, clerk, secretary

kauka [see kavu] = dry v.

kauli [from Ara qawl] = word, speech, opinion; promise

kavu [Her kahe, Kon khafu, Lin koka, Mwe kazu, Sot gahla, from PBan *kadu] = dry adj.

kawaida [see kiada] = custom, habit

kaya [Zul khaya, from PBan *kaaja] = village

kaza [Fan see, from PBan *cad-] = work, exert; emphasize v.

kazi [see kaza; Fan see, Lub kazi, Sangu salu] = work n.

kefu [see kifu] = sufficiency

kenda [Kik kenda, Mwe kenda, Rwa cyenda, from PBan *kenda] = nine

kengele [Bem nyenjele, Kik ngengere, Lub ngengele, Mwe hengele, from PBan *kengede] = bell

kesho [Bem lucelo, from PBan *keido] = morning; tomorrow

kesi [Mwe kesi, Zul khesi from Ban from Eng] = case

kiada [see ada] = with care

kianga [see anga] = sunshine

kiangazi [see kianga] = hot season, summer

kiapo [see apa; Bem mulapo] = oath

kiarabu [from Ara carab] = Arabic

kiasi [see risasi] = ammunition; amount

kiatu [Bem ndyato, Kik kiratu, Lub lato, Mwe kilatu, from PBan *datu] = shoe, sandal

kiazi [Kik ngwaci, Rwa rayi] = potato

kibali [from Ara qabul] = acceptance, favor, reception

kibanzi [Sangu pasi, Ven fhanza, from PBan *pace] = splinter

kiberiti [Bem cibiliti, Gan biriti, Kik kibiriti, Rwa briti from Ban from Ara kibrit] = sulphur; matches

kiboko [Che bhoko, Nya bhoko] = hippopotamus

kiburi [from Ara kibr] = pride, arrogance

kichaa [Bem bushilu, Mwe sala, from PBan *cada] = insanity

kichaka [Kik githaka, Ven daka, from PBan *caka] = bush, copse

kicheko [see cheka; Bem nseko, Kik mitheko, Ven maseo, tsetshwa] = laughter

kichwa [Bem mutwe, Che mutu, Fan lo, Gan twe, Kik mutwe, Lub twe, Nko omutwe, Mwe mtwe, Rwa twe, from PBan *tue] = head

kidau [from Ara dawa] = inkpot

kidevu [Bem kalefulefu, mwefu, Dua maselu, Gan levu, Her oruyezu, Kik kireru, Kon indefu, Lin ndefu, Mwe kilezu, Sho kidevu, Sot seledu (leledu), Ven tshitefu, Zul levu, devu, from PBan *dedu] = chin

kidole [?] = finger, toe

kidonda [Bem cilonda, Kik kironda, Mwe ilonda, Ven tshilonda, Zul londa, from PBan *donda] = wound, ulcer, sore; pain

kifaranga [see faranga] = chicken

kifaru [?] = rhinoceros

kifo [see fa; Bem mfwa, Kik gikuu, Lub fu, Mwe lufu, Sho rufu, Ven lufu, Zul fa] = death

kifu [from Ara kaf] = sufficiency

kifua [Bem cifuba, Che chifuwa, Gan fuba, Her suva, Mwe kikuva, Sot sehuba, Zul fuba, from PBan *kuba] = chest, bosom

kifundo [see fundo] = knot

kifungo [see funga; Bem cifungo] = prison

kifuniko [see funika; Kik gikuniko, Lub finiko, Rwa funiko] = cover, lid n.

kiga [from PBan *jiga] = thigh (of killed animal)

kigego [see gego] = child with large molars; bad omen

kigingi [Kik gikingi] = peg

kigwe [Che chingwe] = string

kiingereza [Kik kingeretha from Por ingles from Ban from Eng] = English (language)

kiini [see ini] = core

kiinimacho [see kiini and macho] = jugglery

kijicho [see jicho] = jealousy, envy

kijiji [see mji] = village

kijiko [see mwiko; Kik giciko] = teaspoon

kikapu [Kik gikabu, Mwe kigapu, Rwa kapu] = basket

kikoa [see koa] = team

kikombe [see kombe] = cup

kikosi [see kosi] = troop

kila [Bem cila, Mwe kila] = every

kilele [from Ara qulla] = peak, tip

kilemba [Kik kiremba, Lin elamba, Ven tshilemba, from PBan *demba] = turban, cloth

kileo [see lewa] = intoxicant, alcohol

kilima [see mlima; Kik kirima] = hill

kilimo [see lima; Bem bulimi, Ven tshilimo, Zul limo] = hoeing season; agriculture

kilindi [see lindi] = deep water

kilio [see lia; Benda cililo, malilo, Kik kiriro, Ven malila, tshililo, Zul lilo] = mourning

kima [Dua kema, Her onjima, Kik ngima, Umb sima, from PBan *kima] = monkey

kimbia [from PBan *kimbid-] = run v.

kimo [Bem cimo, from PBan *jimo] = height

kinanda [Bem cinanda, Kik kinanda] = stringed instrument, piano, harp

kinara [see nuru] = candlestick

kinga [Bem cinga, Mwe kinga, from PBan *king-] = bar, obstruct; protect v.

kingama [Ven tshingama, from PBan *kingam-] = lie across v.

kinu [Her otshinu, Lub nu, from PBan *nu] = mortar

kinyesi [see nya 'defecate'] = excrement

kinyo [see nya 'defecate'] = anus

kinyozi [see nyoa; Gan nyozi] = barber

kinywa [Bem kanwa, Fan ou, Gan mwa, Kik kanua, Lub mwa, Nko akanwa, Rwa nwa, from PBan *nua] = mouth

kinywaji [see nywa; Bem cakunwa, Kik unyuo, Ven tshinwiwa] = drink n.

kioo [see ola; Bem cilola, mulolani, Kik kiroro] = looking glass, mirror

kipande [see pande] = piece

kipawa [see pa; Bem bupe, Kik kiheo, Lub pi, Ven mpho, tshifhiwa, Zul pho] = gift

kipawa [Lub pawa, from PBan *pawa] = ladle

kipeo [Zul phelo, from PBan *pedo] = summit, end

kipimo [see pima; Bem cipimo, Lub pimo, Rwa pimo, Ven phimo] = measure n.

kipindi [Kik hindi, from PBan *pindi] = time, period

kiriba [from Ara qirba] = water-skin

kirihi [from Ara kariha] = detest, abhor

kirimu [from Ara karuma] = generous v.

kisa [from Ara qisa] = story

kisasi [from Ara qisas] = revenge

kisima [Bem cishima, Dua musima, Her omusema, Kam kidima, Kik githima, Lin etima, Sho tsime, Ven tshisima, from PBan *tima] = well n.

kisiwa [Sho chitsuwa] = island

kisu [Her oruvyo, Kik ruhiu, Mwe lushu, Sho chisvo, from Ban] = knife, blade

kisua [from Ara kiswa] = covering; clothes, garment

kitabu [Bem citabo, Lub tabo, Rwa tabo from Ban from Ara kitab] = book

kitambaa [see tambaa; Kik gitambaya] = handkerchief

kitanda [see tanda; Bem butanda, Gan tanda, Kik gitanda, Lin etanda, Lub tanda, Rwa tanda] = bed

kitani [Kik gatani from Ban from Ara katan] = linen

kithiri [from Ara kathira] = increase

kiti [Kik giti, Lin kiti, Lub kici] = chair

kitovu [Bem mutoto, from PBan *todu] = navel

kitoweo [see towea] = side dish

kitu [Bem cintu, Che chinthu, Gan ntu, Kik kindu, Lub ntu, Mwe kinhu, Sho chinhu, Sot ntho, Xho to, Zul thomuntu, from PBan *ntu] = thing, article

kitunguu [Gan katungulu, Kik gitunguru, Lin lituagulu, Lub tungulu, Mwe kitungulu, Rwa tunguru] = onion

kituo [see tua; Lub tulo, Rwa turo] = resting (place), pause

kiume [see mume 'husband'; Kik ndume, Ven tshilume] = male

kiungo [see unga; Zul lungu] = joint

kiungulia [see ungulia; Kik kirungurira] = heartburn n.

kiuno [Rwa buno, Ven vunu, mavhunu, Zul bunu, from PBan *buno] = waist, loin

kivuli [see vuli] = shadow

kiwanja [Bem Lubnsa, Kik kiwanja, from PBan *banja] = courtyard, plot (of ground)

kiwele [see mbele] = udder

kiyama [from Ara qiyama] = resurrection

kiyoga [Bem mowa, Che bowa, Lub owa, from PBan *joga] = mushroom

kizazi [see zaa; Kik ruciaro] = generation

kizibo [see ziba; Kik githibo] = stopper, plug

kizio [see zia] = hemisphere

kizunguzungu [see zunguka; Ven dzungu] = dizziness

koa [?] = belt

kobe [Lin nkoba] = tortoise

kodi [Kik igoti] = tax n.

kofi [Bem ikofi, Kik ruhi, Kon ilikhofi, Sot legofe, from PBan *kopi] = palm (of hand)

kofia [Gan kufira, Kik ngubia, Mwe ngofila, Rwa gofero from Ban from Ara kufiya] = hat, head covering

kohoa [Bem kola, Dua osea, Gan kolola, Her korora, Kik korora, Kon khoso-, Lin kosola, Lub kosola, Mwe kolola, Rwa korora, Sangu kosul-, Sho -kosoro, Sot gohlola, Umb kusola, Ven hotola, Zul khohlela, from PBan *kocud-] = cough v.

kojoa [Gan kojoba, from PBan *kojud-] = urinate v.

kokoleka [from PBan *kokudik-] = cackle v.

kokota [Her koka, Lub koka, Sot goga, Ven hoha, Xho khoka, Zul khokha, from PBan *kok-] = draw, pull v.

koma [Mwe koma, from PBan *kom-] = stop v.

komba [Dua ombo, Her komba, Sot gopa, Zul khombe, from PBan *komb-] = hollow out, scoop v.

kombe [see komba; Bem cikombe, Che khombe, Kik gikombe, Kon ingombe, Rwa kombe, Sot kgopa, Ven khumba, Xho kumba, Zul khombe] = seashell; spoon, bowl, dish; cup, mug

kombora [from Ara qunbura] = shell, grenade, bomb

konda [Bem onda, from PBan *kond-] = thin v.

kon [Kik ngundi, from PBan *kon] = fist

kondoo [from PBan *kondodo] = sheep

konga [from PBan *kong-] = old v.

kongoja [from PBan *kongoj-] = hobble, walk feebly v.

kongoni [Sot kgokong, Ven khongoni, Zul nkonkoni, from PBan *kongoni] = antelope, hartebeest

konokono [?] = snail

konzi [see kon] = fist, handful

koo [Bem cikolo, Sho huro, Ven mukulo, from PBan *kodo] = throat

kopa [Bem kopa, Mwe gopa, from PBan *kop-] = borrow v.

kope [Bem lukopyo, Her umukova, Zul khophe, from PBan *kope] = eyelash

kopo [Bem cikopo, Lub kopo, Mwe igopo, Rwa kopo] = tin, can, mug

korija [from Hin kori] = score

koroga [Gan kologa, Sot hudua, from Ban] = stir v.

koroma [Mwe koloma, from Ban] = snore v.

korongo [Lub ngulungu, Zul nkolongwane, from PBan *kudungu] = roan antelope

korongo [Bem ikolongo, from Ban] = heron, crane

korti [Bem koti, Kik igoti, Rwa koti from Ban from Eng] = court

kosa [Kik gotha, from Ban] = err v.

kosa [see kosa; Mwe ikosa, from Ban] = mistake

kosi [Kik igoti, from PBan *koti] = nape

koti [Gan koti, Kik igoti, Lub koti from Ban from Eng] = coat

kovu [from PBan *kodo] = scar

kua [Bem kula, Dua kola, Gan kula, Her kura, Kik kura, Kon khula, Mwe kula, Rwa kura, San kula, Sot gola, Ven hula, Zul khula, from PBan *kud-] = grow v.

kuba [from Ara qubba] = dome

kubali [from Ara qabila] = accept, agree v.

kubwa [see kuu] = great

kufuli [Kik kuburi from Ban from Ara qufl] = padlock

kufuru [from Ara kafara] = blaspheme v.

kuhani [from Ara kahin from Heb kohen] = priest

kuku [Bem nkoko, Che nkhuku, Kik nguku, Kon inguku, Lin nsoso, Mwe ngoko, Nya nkhuku, Rwa koko, San inhuku, Sho huku, Sot kgogo, Tsw kgogo, Ven khuhu, Xho kuku, Zul khuku, from PBan *kuku] = fowl, hen

kulabu [from Ara qullab] = hook

kule [see le 'that'; Umb kulo] = there

kumbatia [see fumba 'close'; Kik kumbata, Mwe kumbatila, Sho gumbata] = embrace, hold; grasp, seize v.

kumbuka [Kon khumbuka, San kumbula, Sot gopola, Ven humbula, Zul khumbula, from PBan *kumbuk-] = remember, recollect v.

kumi [Bem ikumi, Dua dom, Gan kkumi, Kik ikumi, Lin zomi, Lub kumi, Mwe ikumi, Nya khumi, Rwa cumi, San khumi, Sho gumi, Sot lesome, Tsw some, Umb kunyi, Ven fumi, Zul shumi, from PBan *kumi] = ten

kuna [Bem kuno, Lin kuna, Umb kuna] = there is

kunde [Lin nkunde, Umb kondi, from PBan *kunde] = beans

kundi [Kik gakundi] = group

kundu [from PBan *kondo] = anus

kunguni [Kik ngunguni, from PBan *kunguni] = bug

kunguru [Her ekwara, Kon ilikhungulu, Sot legokobu (legukubu), Ven funguvhu, Zul hlungulu, from PBan *kunguudu] = crow

kuni [Bem lukuni, Che nkhuni, Her orokune, Lin nkoni, Lub kuni, Nya nkhuni, Sho huni, Sot dikgong, Ven khuni, Zul khuni, from PBan *kuni] = firewood

kunja [Kik kunja, from PBan *konj-] = fold v.

kunjua [Kik kunjura, from PBan *konjud-] = unfold, unroll v.

kupe [Bem lukufu, Her ongupa, Kik nguha, Kon inguphi, Sot kgofa, Tsw kgofa, Umb hopio, Zul khuphe, from PBan *kupa] = tick n.

kura [from Ara qurca] = lot, ballot

kuru [from PBan *kudo] = antelope, waterbuck

kusi [?] = south monsoon

kusini [see kusi and ni 'place'; Kik guthini] = south

kusudi [from Ara qasd] = intention; suicide

kuta [Kik kora, Lin kuta, from PBan *kod-] = find v.

kutega [see mtego] = trap n.

kutana [see kuta; Kik korana; Lin kutana] = meet v.

kutu [from PBan *kutu] = rust

kuu [Bem kulu, Her kuru, Kik kuru, Kon khulu-, Lub kulu, Nko kuru, Sot golo, kgolo, Umb holo, Ven hulu, Zul khulu, from PBan *kudu] = big, great; old

kuume [see mume] = right side

kuyu [Bem mukunyu, Kik nguyu, Ven fuyu, Zul khiwane, from PBan *kuju] = wild fig

kwaa [Kik gua, Lin kwa] = stumble, fall v.

kwanza [see anza; Mwe kwandya] = first

kwapa [Bem kwapa, Lub apa, kyapa, Mwe apa, Rwa aha, Sot lehwafa, lekgwafi, Tsw legwafa, Ven bwapwa, gopwa, Zul khwapha, from PBan *japa and *kapua] = armpit

kware [Bem nkwale, Fan kpal, Kik ngware, Lin ekwae, Lub kuadi, Sot kgwale, Xho kwali, Zul khwali, from PBan *kuade] = partridge

kwasi [Umb kuasi] = rich

kwea [Sho kwira, Ven hwela, Zul khwela, from PBan *koid-] = climb, mount v.

kweli [Umb tyiri] = true

L

la [from Ara la] = no

la [Bem lya, Che dya, Dua da, Fan dzi, Gan lya, Her ria, Kik ria, Kon lia, Lin lia, Lub dia, Mwe lya, Nya dya, Rwa rya, San lia, Sho dya, Sot ja, Tsw ja, Umb ria, Ven la, Zul dla, from PBan *di-] = eat v.

laana [from Ara lacna] = curse

ladha [from Ara lidha] = joy, pleasure; flavor, taste

laini [from Ara layn] = soft, smooth

lala [Bem lala, Gan laala, Her rara, Kon lala, Lin lala, Lub lala, Mwe lala, Sho rara, Sot lala, Zul lala, from PBan *daad-] = sleep v.

lamba [Kik ramba, Mwe lamba, Sot latswa, Zul lamba, from PBan *damb-] = lick v.

lami [Kik rami] = tar

landa [from PBan *dand-] = follow v.

lango [see mlango] = gate

laumu [from Ara lama] = blame

lawama [from Ara lawma] = blame

lazima [from Ara lazim] = necessary

le [Umb lo (palo), Zul le] = that

lea [Kik rera, Lub lela, Mwe lela, Ven lela, Zul leleza, from PBan *ded-] = bring up v.

lemaa [Bem lema, Gan lemala, Mwe lemala, Sho -rema, Zul lima, from PBan *dem-] = cripple v.

leo [Bem lelo, Gan lero, Lin lelo, Lub lelo, Mwe lelo, Nya lero, from PBan *deedo] = today

leseni [Kik ritheni from Ban from Eng] = licence

leso [from Por lenco from Lat linteum] = handkerchief

leta [Bem leta, Gan leeta, Her eta, Kik reha, Mwe leta, Tsw lere, Ven ndere, Zul letha, from PBan *deet-] = bring v.

lewa [Kik riu, from PBan *deb-] = drunk v.

lia [Bem lila, Dua eya, Fan yi, Gan lira, Her rira, Kik rira, Kon lila, Lin lela, Lub dila, Mwe lila, Rwa rira, San lila, Sot lla, Tsw lela, Umb lila, rira, Ven lila, Zul lila, from PBan *did-] = weep, cry v.

licha [see likiza] = let alone, not only

likiza [Bem leka, Che leka, Dua dia, Gan leka, Her yeka, Kik reka, Kon leka, Lin leka, Lub leka, Mwe leka, Rwa reka, San lekha, Sot lesa, Ven litsha, Zul yeka, from PBan *dek-] = let, leave v.

lima [Bem lima, Che lima, Gan lima, Her rima, Kik rima, Kon lima, Lub dima, Mwe lima, San lima, Sho rima, Sot lema, Ven lima, Zul lima, dima, from PBan *dim-] = plough, cultivate v.

limbuka [from PBan *dimbud-] = eat first crop v.

linda [Bem linda, Dua endea, Gan linda, Kon linda, Mwe linda, San linda, Sot leta, Ven linda, Zul linda, from PBan *dind-] = guard, protect, watch, wait v.

lindi [from PBan *dindi] = pit, (cess-) pool

linga [Bem linga, Kon linganya, Mwe lenganila, Sot leka, Ven lingana, Zul linga, from PBan *ding-] = equal, compare v.

lini [see ni 'what': Kik ri, Ven lini] = when

lipa [Bem lipa, Kik riha, Mwe lipa, Rwa liha, Sot lefa, Ven lifha, from PBan *dip-] = pay v.

loga [Bem lowa, Gan loga, Her rova, Kik roga, Kon loga, Mwe loga, Sot loya, Ven lowa, Zul loya, from PBan *dog-] = bewitch, spell v.

lori [Kik rori from Ban from Eng] = lorry

lowa [from PBan *dob-] = wet, drenched v.

lowesha [from PBan *dobik-] = soak v.

lozi [Kik ndothi from Ban from Ara lawz] = almonds

lugha [from Ara lugha] = language, dialect; vocabulary

lulu [Kik ruru from Ban from Ara lulu] = pearl

M

maadamu [from Ara madam] = while

maakuli [from Ara makul] = food; diet

maana [from Ara macna] = meaning

maarufu [from Ara macruf; see arifu] = well-known

macho [see jicho] = eyes

machozi [Dua misodi, Her omahoze, Kon ilisosi, Lub sonji, Mwe lwisozi, Sho musodzi, Ven ndodzi, from PBan *jicodi] = tear n.

madhabu [from Ara madhbah; see dhabihu] = altar

madhara [from Ara madharra; see dhara] = harm, damage

madhehebu [from Ara madhhab]= religion, denomination

madhubuti [from Ara madhbut] = secured; firm, reliable

madhumuni [from Ara madhmun] = sense, content, intent

madini [from Ara macdan] = mine; mineral, metal

mafunda [see funda; Ven pfunzo, Zul fundiso] = teach, instruct v.

mafuta [Bem mafuta, Gan futa, Kik maguta, Kon amafutha, Kua makura, Lin mafuta, Lub futa, Mwe maguta, Rwa vuta, San mafutha, Sho mafuta, Sot makhura, Tsw mafura, Ven mapfura, Zul futha, from PBan *kuta] = fat, oil, grease, petrol

mafya [see jifya; Ven maswia] = cooking-stones

magadi [Kik magati] = soda

magharibi [from Ara maghrib] = west, sunset, evening

mahabusi [from Ara mahbus] = arrested; prisoner

mahali [from Ara mahall] = place

maharagwe [Mwe mahalage] = beans

mahari [from Ara mahr] = marriage payment

maiti [from Ara mayt] = dead; corpse

majani [Bem cani, Sot bjang, Tsw bojang, Ven hatsi, Xho tyani, Zul ani, tshani, from PBan *jani] = grass

maji [Bem menshi, Che madzi, Kam manzi, Kik mai, Kon amesi, Lin mai, Lub mayi, Mwe minzi, Nya madzi, Rwa azi, Sot meetse, Tsw metsi, Ven madi, Zul nzi, from PBan *jiji] = water

majivu [Gan vu, Kik muhu, mbuu, Mwe mavu, Rwa ivu, Simbete ribu, from PBan *jibu] = ash

majusi [from Ara majus from Gre magos] = magician, astrologer

makaa [see kaa; Kik makara] = charcoal

makala [from Ara maqala] = artice

maktaba [from Ara maktaba; see kitabu] = library

makuruhi [from Ara makruh] = detestable, offensive

malaika [Bem malaika, Kik muraika, Rwa malayika from Ban from Ara malayka] = angels

malaya [Kik maraya] = prostitute

mali [from Ara mal] = property, wealth

malipo [see lipa; Bem malipilo, Ven mulifho] = pay n.

maliza [Her mana, Kon mala, Mwe mala, from PBan *mad-] = finish v.

malkia [from Ara malika] = queen

mama [Lin mama, Sot mma, mme, Umb mame, Ven mme, Xho ma, Zul mame] = mother

mamba [Bem mamba, Mwe mamba, Zul mamba, from PBan *bamba] = crocodile

mambo [see jambo] = things

mamlaka [from Ara mamlaka] = realm, kingdom; country; authority

mandari [from Ara] = picnic

mandhari [from Ara mandhar] = look, view

manowari [Kik manuwari from Ban from Eng] = man-of-war, battleship, warship

manza [from Ara munazaca] = litigation

manzili [from Ara manzil] = halting place, apartment; stage, state of life

mara [from Ara marra] = times

maradhi [from Ara maradh] = disease, illness

marasharasha [see rasha] = spray n.

marashi [see rasha; Kik maraci, Lin malasi] = perfume, scent

marehemu [from Ara marhum; see rehema] = deceased

marhamu [from Ara marham] = ointment

marijani [from Ara marjan] = pearl, coral

mashariki [from Ara mashriq] = east

mashine [Kik macini from Ban from Eng] = machine, engine

mashtaka [see shtaki] = accusation

mashua [see shua; Kik macua, Lin masuwa] = boat, craft

mashuhuri [from Ara mashhur] = famous, renowned

masika [Kon ikisiku, Sot marega, Ven mariha, Zul sika, from PBan *tika] = rainy season, winter

masilahi [from Ara maslaha] = benefit; advice, consultation; reconcilation

masizi [see sizi] = soot

maskani [from Ara maskan] = dwelling

maskini [from Ara miskin] = poor, miserable, wretched, destitute

masurufu [from Ara masraf; see sarafu] = costs, expenses

matako [see tako; Mwe madako, Sot morago, Tsw morago, Ven murahu] = buttocks; behind

matata [see tata; Lin matata] = entanglement, trouble, difficulty

matatu [see tatu] = vehicle (that can be boarded by several people and used to cost three coins to travel in)

mate [Bem mate, Her omate, Kik mata, Kon amatha, Lub te, Mwe mate, Sho mate, Sot mare, Ven mare, lure, nthe, Zul the, from PBan *te] = spittle, saliva

matilaba [from Ara matlab] = subject; motive

matope [see tope] = mud

matunda [Kik itunda] = fruit

maulana [from Ara mawlana] = our master

mauti [from Ara mawt] = death

mavi [Bem mafi, Fan bvi, Kik mai, Lub mvi, Mwe mafi, Rwa byi, Zul thuvi, from PBan *bii] = excrement, dung

mavu [see mbu; Ven libu] = hornet

mavuno [see vuna] = harvest n.

mawe [see jiwe] = stones

mawele [Kik mwere, Mwe vuvele, Sot lebelebele, Ven luvhele, Xho amabele, from PBan *bede] = millet sp.

mawese [Rwa mamesa] = palm oil

mazao [see zaa] = crops

maziko [see zika; Kik mathiko] = funeral

maziwa [see ziwa] = milk

mbamia [from Ara bamiya] = okra

mbashiri [from Ara mubashir] = predicator, soothsayer

mbavu [see ubavu] = ribs, side

mbegu [Kik mbeu, Kon imbeyu, Mwe mbiyu, Sho mbeu, Sot peu, Ven mbeu, Xho bewu, Zul mbewu, from PBan *begu] = seed

mbele [Bem ibele, Dua dibe, Her evere, Kik mbere, Lin libele, mabele, Mwe mbele, ivele, Rwa bere, Sho mberi, Sot pele (lebele, letswele), Tsw lebele, Zul bele, phambili, from PBan *bede] = front, ahead; first

mbili [Bem bili, Dua ba, Gan bbiri, Her vari, Kik iri, Kon veli, Lin mibale, Lub bidi, Nko biri, Mwe vili, Nya wiri, Rwa biri, San vili, Sho piri, Sot bedi, pedi, Tsw pedi, Umb vaari, Ven mbili,vhili, Xho bini, Zul bili, from PBan *bidi] = two

mbingu [see wingu] = sky, heaven

mboga [see boga; Kik mboga] = vegetable

mbogo [Bem mboo, Kik mbogo, Kon imbogo, Mwe mbogo, Rwa bogo, Sot poo, Tsw poo, Ven mboho, from PBan *bogo] = buffalo

mboo [Kik uruu, from PBan *bodo] = penis

mbu [Mwe mbu, Sot mobu, Tsw mofu, Zul vi, bu, from PBan *bu] = mosquito

mbungo [Sitho sepo, Ven mmbo, from PBan *bugo] = tsetse

mbuni [see buni] = inventor

mbuyu [see buyu; Kik mabuyu] = baobab

mbuzi [Bem mbushi, Che mbuzi, Dua mbodi, Kik mburi, Lub mbuji, Mwe mbuli, Sho mbudzi, Sot pudi, Tsw podi, Ven mbudzi, Zul buzi, from PBan *budi] = goat

mbwa [Bem mbwa, Dua mbo, Fan vu, Gan bwa, Her ombwa, Kik mbwa, Rwa bwa, Kon imbwa, Lin mbwa, Lub bua, Mwe mbwa, San imbwa, Sho imbwa, Sot mpsa, Tsw ntshwa, Umb mbua, Ven mmbwa, Zul nja, from PBan *bua] = dog

mchana [Ven twa, from PBan *cana] = daytime

mchanga [Bem mucanga, lusenga, Che mchenga, Kik muthanga, Lub senga, Mwe msenga, from PBan *canga] = sand, soil

mchango [from PBan *cango] = worm

mchawi [see uchawi] = witch

mchele [Gan cere, Kik mucere, Mwe mchele, Rwa celi] = rice

mchumba [from PBan *cumba] = fiancé

mchungwa [Bem icungwa, Gan cungwa, Kik icungwa, Mwe ichungwa] = orange

mchuzi [Kik mucuthi, Mwe msuzi, Zul hluzi, from PBan *cudi] = broth, soup

mchwa [Bem luswa, Kik muthua, Mwe mswa, Sot mohlwa, Ven mutwa, Xho tlwa, Zul hlwa, from PBan *cua] = termites

mdogo [?] = rat

mdomo [Bem milomo (mulomo), Kik kiromo, Kon undomo, Lub nomo, Mwe mlomo, Sho muromo, Sot molomo, Ven mulomo, Zul lomo, from PBan *domo] = lip

mea [Gan mera, Her mina, Kik mera, Kon mela, Mwe mela, San mela, Sot mela, Ven mela, Zul mila, from PBan *med-] = grow, sprout v.

meko [see jiko] = fireplaces

meli [Kik meri from Ban from Eng] = mail boat; steamer, ship, craft

mende [from PBan *jenje] = cockroach

meno [see jino; Sho mazino] = teeth

meza [Bem mina, Dua minya, Gan mira, Her nina, Kik meria, Kon mila, Mwe mila, Nya medza, San mila, Sot metsha, Ven mila, Zul minza, from PBan *mid-] = swallow, gulp v.

meza [Gan meza, Kik metha, Lin mesa, Lub mesa, Mwe meza, Rwa eza from Por mesa from Lat mensa] = table

mfalme [Ban] = king

mfereji [from Ara farj] = cleft

mfu [see fa; Ven mufu] = dead, corpse

mfua [see fua; Ven mufuli] = smith

mfuko [Bem mufuko, Kik muhuko, from PBan *puko] = bag

mfungwa [see funga; Mwe mfungwa] = prisoner

mfuo [Bem mfulo] = furrow

mfupa [Bem ifupa, Lin mokuwa, Mwe maguha, Rwa guf(w)a, Sho pfupa, Zul fuphi, from PBan *kupa] = bone

mgambo [from PBan *gambo] = speech, proclamation

mganda [Ven dzanda, from PBan *ganda] = sheaf

mgawo [see gawa; Rwa gabanya] = division

mgeni [Bem mweni, Kik mugeni, Lub eni, Mwe mgeni, Sho mueni, Sot moeng, Ven mueni, Zul yeni, from PBan *geni] = stranger, guest

mgomba [?] = banana

mgomvi [see gomba] = quarrelsome person

mgongo [Gan gongo, Kik mugongo, Lin mokongo, Mwe mgongo, Rwa gongo, from PBan *gongo] = back n.

mgonjwa [from PBan *gon-] = ill

mgunga [Bem munga, Ven munga, Zul nga, from PBan *gunga] = acacia

mguu [Bem gulu, Gan gulu, Kik kuguru, Lub kulu, Nko okuguru, Mwe mgulu, Rwa guru, from PBan *gudu] = leg, foot

mhanga [?] = ant-eater

mia [from Ara mia] = hundred

mifugo [see fuga] = cattle

miliki [from Ara malaka] = rule, possess v.

milki [from Ara mulk] = kingdom, state, country, dominion

mimba [see vimba] = pregnancy

mimbari [from Ara minbar] = pulpit

mimi [Zul mi, from PBan *mi] = I

minya [Her ninikiza, Sot mimila, Zul minya, from PBan *min-] = squeeze out v.

Misri [Kik Misiri from Ban from Ara Misr] = Egypt

mithali [from Ara mithal] = example; proverb, parable, fable; problem

mivuo [Bem muba, Mwe mguva, Ven muvuvha, from PBan *gubo] = bellows

miwani [Kik miwani from Ban from Ara] = spectacles, glasses

mizani [from Ara mizan] = scales, balance

mizigo [see mzigo; Kik mirigo] = baggage, luggage

mizizi [Che muzu, Fan dzi, Kik muri, Rwa zi, Mwe mzi, Sho mudzi, Sot modu (medu, medi), Ven mudzi, Zul zi, from PBan *di] = root

mja [see ja] = servant

mjakazi [see mja and Bantu *kaji] = female servant

mjeremani [Kik munjirimani from Ban from Eng] = German

mji [Bem mushi, Che mudzi, Dua mundi, Her oruze, Kik mucii, Nya mudzi, Rwa gi, Sot motse, Ven mudi, Zul zi, from PBan *gii] = town, village

mjukuu [Bem mwishikulu, Kik cukuru, Mwe mwizukulu, Sho muzukuru, Ven muduhulu, Zul zukulu, from PBan *jijukudu] = grandchild

mkasi [Bem makashi, Gan kasi, Kik magathi, Lin makasi, Mwe mkasi, Rwa kasi from Ban from Ara maqqas] = scissors

mkate [Bem mukate, Gan gati, Kik mugate, Lub kate, Mwe mgate, Rwa gati, from PBan *kaate] = bread

mke [Bem muka, Kik muka, Kon unkha, Mwe mke, Suk ke, Xho ka, Umb kai, Zul mka, from PBan *ke] = wife

mkebe [Kik mukebe from Ban from Ara] = tin, can

mkeka [Kik mugeka, Mwe mgeka, from PBan *keka] = mat

mkia [Bem mucila, Her omutkhira, Lin mokila, Mwe mkila, Sot mosela, Ven mutshila, Zul sila, from PBan *kida] = tail

mkoa [see koa] = zone

mkojo [from PBan *kojo] = urine

mkono [Gan kono, Nko omukono, Mwe mkono, Ven mukonwo, Zul khono, from PBan *kono] = hand, arm

mkopo [see kopa; Bem bukope] = loan

mkosi [see kosi] = nape

mkuki [?] = spear

mkunga [Kik mukunga, from PBan *kunga] = eel

mkuu [see kuu] = elder, chief

mkwe [Bem mako, buko, bukwe, Lub ko, Zul khwe, from PBan *ko] = in-law

mlango [Kik murango, Mwe mlyango, Sot mojako, Zul nyango, from PBan *diango] = door, gate

mle [see le 'that'] = in there

mlevi [see lewa] = drunkard

mlezi [see lea; Kik mureri] = nurse n.

mlima [Kik kirima, from PBan *dema] = mountain, hill

mlimaji [see lima; Bem mulimi, Gan limi, Kik murimi, Ven mulimi] = cultivator, farmer

mlingoti [Bem mulongoti] = mast, pole

mlinzi [see linda; Bem mulinshi, Ven mulindi] = guard n.

mlozi [see loga; Bem muloshi, Kik murogi, Ven muloi] = witch, sorcerer

mluzi [Mwe mluli, Xho loza, Ven muludzi, Zul lozi, from PBan *dudi] = whistle n.

mmea [see mea; Kik mumera, Rwa mera] = plant n.

mnafiki [from Ara munafiq] = hypocrite

mnajimu [from Ara munajjim] = astrologer

mnara [Rwa nara from Ban from Ara manara] = tower

mngaro [see ngaa] = brightness

mnuko [see nuka; Bem bununko, Rwa nuko, Ven munuko] = smell n.

mnyororo [Bem munyololo, Kik munyororo, Lub yololo, Mwe mnololo] = chain

moja [Bem mo, Kik mwe, Lin moko, Lub mwe, Mwe mo, Nya modzi, Umb mosi, from PBan *mo(ti)] = one

moshi [see oka; Her omwise, Lub ishi, Mwe lyosi, Rwa otsi, Sho utsi, Sot mosi, Tsw mosi, Ven mutsi, Zul si] = smoke

motakaa [Bem motoka, Gan motoka, Kik mutokaa, Lub motoka, Mwe modoka, Rwa modoka, Sho motokari, Zul motokali from Ban from Eng] = motor car

moto [see joto; Lin moto, Mwe moto, Sho moto, Ven mwoto] = fire

moyo [Kik muoyo, Lub moyo, Mwe moyo, Sho mwoyo, Sot moya, Tsw mowa, Ven muya, Zul oya, from PBan *jojo] = life; spirit; heart

mpagazi [Kik mubagathi from Ban from Eng baggage] = baggage carrier, carrier, porter

mpaka [Bem mupaka, Kik muhaka, from PBan *paka] = border, boundary

mpango [see panga] = arrangement, plan

mparuzi [see parua] = careless worker

mpasi [see pata] = grabber, over-ambitious person

mpingo [from PBan *pingo] = ebony

mpini [Bem mupini, Che mpini, Mwe mpini, Nya mpini, Ven mufhini, Zul phini, from PBan *pini] = handle, shaft

mpira [Bem mupila, Che mpira, Gan pira, Kik mubira from Por pila] = rubber, tyre, ball

mpishi [see pika; Bem kepika, Kik mubici, Lub pishi, Ven mubikeli] = cook n.

mpunga [Bem mupunge, Mwe mpunga, Ven mupunga, from PBan *punga] = rice

mpwa [Bem mwipwa, Lub ipua, Ven mphwa-, from PBan *jipua] = nephew

mraba [from Ara murabbac] = square

mradi [from Ara murad] = wish, intention, desire

mreno [from Por reino 'kingdom'] = Por

mrumi [from Ara rumi from Lat Roma] = Roman

mrututu [from Hin] = bluestone

msaada [from Ara musacada] = help

msafa [from Ara masaf] = position; phalanx; line, row

msafiri [from Ara musafir] = traveller; visitor, guest, newcomer

msahafu [from Ara mas’haf] = book

msaidi [from Ara musacid] = helper

msalaba [Bem musalaba, Kik mutharaba from Ban from Ara salib] = cross n.

mshahara [from Ara mushahara] = monthly wage

mshale [Sangu tsal-, from PBan *caade] = arrow

mshipa [Bem lushipa, Her omusepa, Kik mukiha, Kon ikisipha, Sot mosifa, Zul sipha, from PBan *kipa] = vein, artery, sinew

msho [see sho] = tailor

msikiti [Che mzikiti, Kik muthigiti from Egyptian Ara masgid] = mosque

msimu [from Ara mawsim] = season

mstari [from Ara satr] = row, line

mstatili [from Ara mustatil] = rectangle

msuluhi [from Ara musalih] = peacemaker

msumari [Bem musomali, Kik mucumari, Lub sumadi, Mwe msumali, Rwa sumari from Ban from Ara mismar] = nail (of iron)

msumeno [Kik muthumeno from Ban from Ara] = saw n.

mswaki [Bem muswaki, Gan swaki from Ban from Ara miswak] = toothbrush

mtaa [from PBan *tala] = district

mtama [from PBan *tama] = millet, sorghum

mtego [Bem citeyo, Kik mutego, Mwe mtego, from PBan *tego] = trap n.

mtende [see tende; Kik mutende] = date-palm

mti [Bem muti, Fan li, Genda ti, Her omuti, Kik muti, Kon uluthi, Lin mwete, Lub zshi, Mwe mti, Rwa ti, Sho muti, Sot more, Umb ti, Ven muri, nthi, Zul thi, from PBan *ti] = tree; wood

mto [from PBan *to] = river

mto [Kik muuto] = pillow

mtribu [from Ara mutrib; see tarabu] = musician

mtu [Bem muntu, Che munthu, Dua moto, Gan ntu, Her omundu, Kik mundu, Kon umundu, Lin moto, Lub ntu, Mwe mnhu, Nya munthu, Rwa muntu, San umunhu, Sho munhu, Sot motho, Tsw motho, Ven muthu, Zul ntu, from PBan *tu] = person

mtumba [Bem itumba, from PBan *tumba] = bag, bale, bundle

mtwa [Sot morwana, Zul thwa, from PBan *toa] = pygmy

muda [from Ara mudda] = period

muhimu [from Ara muhimm] = essential, important

muhindi [Kik hindi from Ban from Ara hindi 'Indian'] = maize; grain

muhogo [Mwe muhogo, Ven mufhoho, from Ban] = cassava

muhuri [Kik ruuri from Ban from Ara muhr] = seal

mume [Bem lume (cilume), Dua mome, Fan num, Her rume, Kik murume, Kon undume, Lub lume, Mwe mhungulume, Sho murume, Umb lume, Ven lume, from PBan *dume] = male, man, husband

mumunya [Kik mumunya, Sot mona, Ven muna, Zul munya, from PBan *mumuna] = suck v.

mungu [Bem mulungu, Che mulungu, Kik murungu, Nya mulungu, from PBan *dungu] = god

mustarehe [from Ara mustarih; see starehe] = resting

muundi [Ven mwondo, from Ban] = shin

muwa [Kik kigwa, Mwe iguva, Sot mmoba, nyoba, Zul oba, from PBan *guba] = sugarcane

mvi [Bem lufwi, Kik mbui, Lin mbwi, Ven mmvi, luvi, Xhoso mvi, Zul vi, from PBan *bui] = white, grey hair

mvinyo [Kik mbinyu from Por vinho from Lat vinum] = wine; spirit; whisky

mvua [Bem mfula, Dua mbua, Her ombura, Kik mbura, Kon ifula, Lin mbula, Lub vula, Mwe mbula, Rwa vura, Sho mvura, Sot pula, Tsw pula, Ven mvula, Zul vula, from PBan *buda] = rain n.

mvuvi [see vua; Lub luwe] = fisherman

mwagika [from PBan *badik-] = split v.

mwaguzi [see agua] = diviner, soothsayer

mwaka [Bem mwaka, Gan waka, Kik mwaka, Mwe mwaka, Nya chaka, Rwa aka, Sho mwaka, Ven nwaha, Zul nyaka, from PBan *jaka] = year

mwako [see waka; Kik mwaki] = burning, blaze, fire

mwali [Kik mwari, Sot ngwale, from PBan *jadi] = virgin, bride, girl; daughter

mwalimu [Kik mwarimu, Lub adimu, Mwe mwalimu, Rwa alimu from Ban from Ara mucalim] = teacher

mwamba [from PBan *jamba] = rock, stone

mwamuzi [see amua] = judge, referee

mwana [Bem mwana, Che mwana, Dua muna, Fan on, Gan wana, Her omuna, Kik mwana, Kon umwana, Lin mwana, Lub ana, Mwe mwana, Nya mwana, Rwa ana, Sot ngwana (bjana), Umb mona, Ven nwana, Xho tshana, ntana, Zul ngane, tshana, from PBan *jana] = child

mwanakondoo [see mwana and kondoo] = lamb

mwanambuzi [see mwana and mbuzi] = kid

mwandiko [see andika; Kik mwandiko] = writing n.

mwanga [Bem bwanga] = wizard, sorcerer

mwanya [Kik mwanya] = gap, pass

mwanzi [Kik murangi, Lin mbanzi, from PBan *dangi] = bamboo

mwavuli [see mvua; Bem mwamfuli, Kik maburi] = umbrella

mwayo [Gan ayuya, from PBan *jajo] = yawn n.

mwembe [see embe; Kik mwembe] = mango tree

mwendo [see enda; Bem bulendo, Che ulendo, Kik rugendo, Lub wendo] = journey, travel, trip, passage

mwenye [Bem mwine, Dua mene, Her omvini, Kik mwene, Kon mwene, Sot mong, Ven mune, Zul nini, from PBan *jene] = owner

mwenzi [see enda; Kik mugendi] = travel companion; traveler

mwe [Bem mweshi, Dua modi, Fan myel, Gan wezi, Her oMwe, Kik mweri, Kon umwesi, Lub eji, enji, Mwe Mwe, Nya Mwe, Rwa ezi, San mwesi, Sho mwedzi, Sot ngwedi, Tsw ngwedi, Ven nwedzi, Xho nyezi, Zul nyezi, nkanyezi, from PBan *jedi] = moonlight

mwiba [Kik muigua, Lub diba, Mwe limhwa, Xho va, Zul iva, from PBan *jigua] = thorn

mwiko [Bem mwiko, Kik muiko, Mwe kijiko, Rwa yiko, Sot leho, Ven lufo, from PBan *jiko] = ladle, spoon, trowel

mwiko [Bem mwiko, Mwe mwiko, from PBan *jiko] = taboo

mwili [Bem mubili, Gan biri, Kik mwiri, Kon umbili, Lub bidi, Mwe muvili, Rwa biri, San guvili, Sho muviri, Sot mmele, muvhili, Tsw mmele, Zul bili, from PBan *bidi] = body

mwisho [see isha; Mwe mwisho] = end n.

mwivi [see iba; Lin moyibi, Lub ivi, Mwe mwibi, Sho mbavha, Ven mbava] = thief

mwizi [see iba; Kik muici] = thief

mwoga [see woga; Ven muofhi] = coward

mwuaji [see ua 'kill'; Kik muuragani, Ven mbulahi] = murderer

myunani [see yunani; Kik muyunani] = Greek

mzazi [see zaa] = parent

mzigo [Her zeu, Kik murigo, Mwe mligo, from PBan *digo] = load n.

mzimu [Che mzimu, Dua edimo, Lin molimo, Mwe mzimu, Sot modimo, badimo, godimo, ledimo, Ven mudzimu, Zul zimu, from PBan *dimu] = spirit

mzinga [Mwe mzinga, from PBan *dinga] = beehive

mzinga [Kik mucinga, Mwe mzinga] = gun, cannon

mzungu [Bem musungu, Kik muthungu, Rwa zungu, Sho chirungu, Ven mulungu, Zul lungu, from PBan *jungu] = white man, European

N

na [Bem na, Dua na, Her na, Kik na, Kon na, Lin na, Mwe na, Rwa na, San na, Sho na, Sot na, nea, Ven na, Zul na, from PBan *na] = and, with

naam [from Ara nacm] = yes

nabii [Bem munabi, Kik munabi from Ban from Ara nabi] = prophet

nadhari [from Ara nadhar] = look; care; choice

nadhifu [from Ara nadhif] = clean, tidy, neat

nadhiri [from Ara nadhr] = vow

nadi [from Ara nada] = call, proclaim v.

nadra [from Ara nadir] = rare; unusual

nafaka [from Ara nafaqa 'cost'] = food; corn

nafasi [from Ara nafas] = breath; spirit; spare time

nafsi [from Ara nafs] = self, person

nafuu [from Ara nafc] = usefulness, use, benefit, gain

naibi [from Ara naib] = secretary, representative, delegate, deputy

nairuzi [from Per nouruz] = new year

najisi [from Ara najasa] = make filthy, defile

nakala [from Ara naql] = copy; transport; tradition; tales

nakawa [from Ara naqawa] = selection, choice

nakshi [from Ara naqsh] = painting; carving

namna [from Per nemune] = example, pattern

nanasi [Kik nanathi from Por ananas] = pineapple

nane [Kik inyanya, Mwe nane, Rwa nani, from PBan *nainai] = eight

nanga [Kik nanga from Per langar] = anchor

nani [see ni 'what'; Lin nani, Mwe nani] = who

nasa [see nata] = make get stuck, trap v.

nasaba [from Ara nasab] = origin; lineage

nasibu [from Ara nasib] = share; destiny; chance

nata [from PBan *namat-] = stick, adhere v.

nazi [Bem ngashi, Kik nathi from Ban from Ara narjil from Per nargil] = coco

ncha [Sot ntlha, Ven ntha, from PBan *ca] = tip, end

nchi [Bem shi (panshi), Che (pansi), Dua se (wase), Fan si, Gan si (wansi), Her hi (kehi), Kik thi, Kon si (phasi), Lin nse, Lub (panshi), Mwe nsi, Rwa si, Sot se (fase, tlase), Umb si, Ven si (dasi, fhasi), Xho tsi (phantsi), Zul si (phansi, ezantsi) , from PBan *ce] = land, earth, country

nda [Kik nda, Kon munda, Lub nda, Sot boteng, Ven mala, from PBan *da] = inside, belly n.

ndama [from PBan *dama] = calf

ndani [see nda and ni 'place'; Zul ndeni] = inside adv.

ndege [Che ndege, Lin ndeke, Nya ndege, Rwa dege, Sangu ndeki, from PBan *dege] = bird

ndege [see ndege; Bem ndeke, Kik ndege, Sho ndege] = airplane

ndevu [see kidevu; Kik nderu, Lin ndefu, Lub wevu, Mwe ndezu, Sho ndebvu, Sot leledu, Tsw tedu, Ven ndebvu] = beard

ndezi [Bem nsenshi, Ven tshedzi, Zul hlezi] = cane-rat

ndimu [Che ndimu, Gan nnimu, Kik ndimu, Rwa dimu from Por limao] = lime, lemon

ndizi [?] = banana

ndoa [see oa] = marriage

ndoana [from PBan *dubane from *dub-; see vua] = fish-hook

ndoo [Kik ndoo, Mwe ndovo from Ban from Ara dalw or Per dul] = bucket, pail

ndoto [see ota; Bem ciloto, Kik kiroto, Lin ndoto, Ven muloro] = dream

ndovu [Bem nsofu, Che njobvu, Dua njou, Fan zoh, Gan jovu, Her onjou, Kik njogu, Kon isofu, Lub nzevu, Mwe nzovu, Nya njobvu, Rwa zovu, San nzovu, Sho nzou, Sot tlou, Ven ndou, Zul dlovu, from PBan *jogu] = elephant

ndugu [Lin ndeko, from PBan *dugu] = kinsman, brother

neema [from Ara nacma] = favor, mercy

nemsi [from Ara namus from Gre nomos] = honor, reputation

nena [Che nena, Lub nena, from PBan *neen-] = speak v.

nene [Fan nen, Kik nene, Lin nene, Umb nene, from PBan *nene] = thick, big

neva [from Eng] = nerve

ngaa [Kik ara] = shine v.

ngalawa [Kik ngarawa] = canoe

ngambo [Mwe mwambu] = other side

ngamia [Bem ngamiya, Kik ngamira, Rwa gamiya from Egyptian Ara gamal] = camel

ngano [Bem nganu, Kik ngano, Lub ngano, Rwa gano] = wheat

ngano [Her omwano, Kik rugano, Ven ganeo, from PBan *gano] = tale, story

ngazi [Kik ngathi, Lub ngaji] = ladder

ngao [Kik ngo, Mwe ngavo, from PBan *gabo] = shield

nge [from PBan *ge] = scorpion

ngiri [Bem munjili, Kik ngiri, Mwe igili, Sho njiri, from PBan *gidi] = warthog

ngoa [from PBan *good-] = pull, uproot v.

ngoja [from PBan *goj-] = wait v.

ngoma [Bem ngoma, Che ngoma, Dua ngomo, Fan gom, Her ongoma, Rwa goma, Lub ngoma, Mwe ngoma, Sho ngoma, Umb ngoma, Ven ngoma, Zul ngoma, from PBan *goma] = drum

ngombe [Bem ngombe, Kik ngombe, Lin ngombe, Lub ngombe, Mwe mombe, Sho mombe, Umb ngombe, Ven nombe, from PBan *gombe] = bovine, cow

ngozi [Ekinyambo engozi] = skin

nguo [Kik nguo, Zul ngubo, from PBan *gubo] = dress, cloth, garment

nguruma [Kik ruruma, Mwe gilima, from PBan *dudum-] = roar, thunder, rumble, growl v.

nguruwe [Bem ngulube, Her onguruve, Kik ngurue, Kon inguluve, Lub ngulube, Mwe nguluve, Rwa gurube, Sho nguruve, Sot kolobe, Umb ngulube, Ven nguluvhe, Xho gulube, Zul ngulube, from PBan *gudube] = pig

nguvu [Fan gvul, Mwe nguzu, from PBan *gudu] = strength, power

ni [Bem ni (ani), Lin ni (nani), Umb nye, Ven ni, Zul ni] = what kind

ni [Zul ndeni] = place

nia [from Ara nia] = intention

nidhamu [from Ara nidham] = order, discipline

nikaha [from Ara nikah] = marriage

nini [see ni 'what'; Lin nini] = what

ninyi [Ven ni, Zul ni] = you

nira [from Ara nir] = yoke

nishani [from Ara nishan] = sign; medal

njaa [Bem nsala, Che njala, Dua njai, Her onjara, Kon injala, Lin nzala, Lub nzala, Mwe nzala, Rwa zara, San inzala, Sho nzara, Sot tlala, Umb nzala, Ven ndala, Xho dlala, Zul ndlala, from PBan *jada] = hunger, famine

nje [Bem panse, Her penje, Kik nja, Kon phanja, Sot ntle, Ven nnda, Xho dle, Zul ndle (phandle) , from PBan *je] = outside

njema [see ema] = it's good

njia [Bem nshila, Che njira, Dua ngea, Fan zem, Her onjira, Kik njira, Kon injila, Lin nzela, Lub jila, Mwe nzila, Nya njira, Rwa inzira, San inzila, Sho nzira, Sot tsela, Umb ngyila, Ven ndila, Zul dlela, from PBan *jida] = path, road, way, passage

njiwa [Sho njiva, Sot leeba, Ven livha, nzhivha, tshivha, Zul juba, from PBan *jiba] = dove, pigeon

njugu [Sho nzungu, Sot tloo, Ven nduhu, Zul dlubu, from PBan *jugu] = nut

nne [Bem ne, Dua nei, Gan nnya, Her ne, Kik inya, Kon na, Lin minei, Lub na, Nko na, Mwe ne, Nya nai, Rwa ne, San na, Sho na, Sot nne, Tsw nne, Ven na, Zul ne, from PBan *nai] = four

noa [Bem nona, Zul lola, from PBan *nood-] = sharpen, whet v.

nondo [Zul nundu] = moth

nona [Bem nona, Kik nora, Sot nona, Ven nona, Zul nona, from PBan *non-] = fat v.

noti [Kik nuti from Ban from Eng] = note, bank note

nsiya [Kik thiya, Ven ntsa, from PBan *kia] = duiker antelope

nta [Mwe nta, from PBan *ta] = wax (of bees)

nufaika [see nafuu] = prosper v.

nuka [Bem nunka, Her nuka, Kik nunga, Kon nunga, San nunkha, Sot ngka, Ven nukha, Zul nuka, from PBan *nunk-] = smell, stink v.

nuksi [from Ara nuks] = decadence; mischief

nukta [from Ara nuqta] = dot, point

nuna [from PBan *nun-] = grumble v.

nundu [from PBan *dundu] = hump

nungu [Bem cinungi, Mwe nunguli, Sot noko, Zul nungu, from PBan *dungu] = porcupine

nungunika [from PBan *nungonik-] = grumble v.

nunua [Gan nunula, Sho nunura, from PBan *nunud-] = buy, redeem v.

nuru [from Ara nur] = light

nusa [see nuka] = smell v.

nusu [Kik nuthu from Ban from Ara nisf] = half

nusuru [from Ara nasara] = help

nya [Her nyina, Lin no, Sot na, Tsw na, Ven na, Zul na, from PBan *ni] = rain n.

nya [Bem nya, Dua nya, Her nia, Kon nya, Lin nyei, Mwe na, Sot nya, Ven nya, Zul nya] = urinate, defecate v.

nyama [Bem nama, Che nyama, Dua nyama, Gan nnyama, Her onyama, Kik nyama, Kon inyama, Lin nyama, Lub nyama, Mwe nama, Nya nyama, Rwa nyama, Sho nyama, Sot nama, Ven nama, Zul nyama, from PBan *nyama] = meat, flesh; animal

nyamera [Rwa nyemera] = topi

nyani [Rwa igannyi, from PBan *jani] = ape, baboon

nyanya [Gan nnyanya, Kik nyanya, Rwa nyanyi, from PBan *nyaanya] = tomato

nyasi [Rwa atsi, from PBan *nyati] = grass

nyati [Che njati, Dua nyati, Fan oar, Her onyati, Lin nzale, Nya njati, Sho nyati, Sot nare, Tsw nare, Umb nyanyi, Ven nari, Zul nyathi, from PBan *jati] = buffalo

nyauka [from PBan *niad-] = wither v.

nyenje [Bem nyense, Kik nyenje, Zul nyendle, from PBan *jenje] = cricket; bug

nyoa [Zul nwaya, from PBan *nod-] = shave v.

nyoka [from PBan *jinuk-] = straight v.

nyoka [Bem nsoka, Che njoka, Fan oo, Her onyoka, Kon injoka, Lin nyoka, Lub nyoka, Mwe nzoka, Nya njoka, Rwa zoka, San inyokha, Sho nyoka, Sot noga, Umb nyoka, Ven nowa, Zul nyoka, from PBan *joka] = snake

nyonga [Sot noka, Zul nyonga, from PBan *jonga] = hip

nyongo [Kik nyongo, Sot nyooko, Ven nyongwe, Zul nyongo, from PBan *jongo] = bile, gall

nyonya [Gan nuna] = suck v.

nyota [Kik njata, Lin nzoto, from PBan *jota] = star

nyoya [Kik guoya, ruoya, Lub oyi, Mwe loya, Rwa oya, Sot boya, Zul oya, from PBan *joja] = feather, hair, wool

nyuki [Bem buci, Her onyuitkhi, Kik njuki, Kon injuki, Lin nzoi, Mwe nzuki, Rwa yuki, San inyusi, Sho nyuchi (huchi), Sot nose (bose), SSot notshi, Tsw notshe, Umb nyihi (iki), Ven notshi, Zul nyosi, from PBan *jiki] = bee

nyuma [Bem numa, Lub nyima, Mwe numa, Rwa nyuma, Umb nyima, from PBan *jima] = back, behind, rear

nyumba [Che nyumba, Gan nyumba, Kik nyumba, Mwe numba, Nya nyumba, Rwa nyumba, Sho imba, from PBan *jumba] = house

nyumbani [see nyumba and NI 'place'] = home

nyumbu [Kik nyumbu] = mule

nyundo [Bem nondo, Kik nyondo, Mwe nundo, Rwa yundo, Sot noto, Ven nyundo, Zul ando, from PBan *jundo] = hammer

nyungu [see buu] = worm

nyuni [Bem cuni, Dua inon, Fan non, Gan nyonyi, Kik nyoni, Kon injuni, Lub nyunyi, Mwe noni, Rwa nyoni, San inyuni, Sot lenong, Tsw nonyane, Ven tshinoni, Zul nyoni, from PBan *juni] = bird

nywa [Bem nwa, Che mwa, Dua nyo, Gan nywa, Her nwa, Kik nyua, Kon nwa, Lub nua, Mwe mwa, Nya mwa, Rwa nywa, San nwa, Sho nwa, Sot nwa, Umb nua, Ven nwa, from PBan *niwa] = drink v.

nywele [Gan viri, Kik njuiri, Lub nywene, Mwe lunele, Zul nwele, from PBan *juede] = hair

nzige [Kik ngigi, Mwe iyige, Sot tsie, Ven nzie, Zul diye, from PBan *gige] = locust

O

oa [from PBan *koid-] = marry v.

oga [Bem owa, Lub oya, Mwe oga, Rwa oga from PBan *jog-] = wash, bathe v. 

ogelea [see oga; Gan wuga] = swim v.

ogopa [Mwe ogoha, Ven ofha, from PBan *jogup-] = fear v.

oka [Bem oca, cushi, Gan okya, Kam yioki, Kon ilyosi, Umb isi, yokua, Ven oka, vhutsi, Zul si, osa, from PBan *jok-] = roast, bake v.

okoa [Gan kola, from PBan *jokud-] = save v.

ola [Bem lola, Kik rora, from PBan *dod-] = look, observe v.

omba [Bem lomba, Kon lomba, Mwe lomba, San lomba, Sot lopa, from PBan *domb-] = ask v.

ona [Bem mona, Che ona, Her muna, Kik ona, Kon vona, Kongo mona, Lin mona, Lub mona, Mwe vona, San vona, Sho ona, Sot bona, Ven vhona, Zul bona, from PBan *bon-] = see v.

ongea [from PBan *dongid-] = talk v.

ongeza [Bem ongesha, Gan ongera, Kik ongera, Kon ongela, Mwe ongeja, Rwa ongera, San jongelesa, Sot oketsa (eketsa), Tsw oketsa, Zul ongeza, engeza, from PBan *jongid-] = add v.

ongoa [from PBan *dongud-] = guide, precede v.

onja [Mwe vonja] = taste v.

ono [see ona] = view

orofa [Kik ngoroba from Gre orophos] = floor, storey

ororo [Kik ororo, from PBan *godobo] = soft

osha [see oga; Gan oza, Rwa oza] = wash v.

ota [Bem lota, Dua ndoti, Gan loota, Her rota, Kik rota, Mwe lota, Sho rota, Sot toro, lora, Ven lora, from PBan *doot-] = dream v.

ota [Bem onta, Gan ota, Her wota, Kik ota, Kon otha, San yotha, Sot ora, Ven ora (mwoto), Zul otha, from PBan *jota] = warm, bask v.

ote [Bem onse, Che yense, Dua ese, Her he, Kik othe, Kon osa, Lin nso, Lub nso, Mwe ose, Rwa ose, Sho se, Sot ohle, Ven othe, Xho onke, Zul nke, from PBan *jote] = all

ovu [Kik uru] = bad, evil

oza [Bem bola, Dua bo, Gan bola, Her ora, Kik ora, Kon vola, San vola, Sot bola, Zul bola, from PBan *bod-; see bovu] = rot v.

P

pa [Bem pa, Fan ve, Gan wa, Her pa, Kik ha, Kon pha, Mwe pa, Lub pa, Rwa ha, San pa, Sho pa, Sot fa, Tsw fa, Ven fha, Zul pha, from PBan *pa] = give v.

pa [Bem pa (panshi, panse), Che (pansi), Her pe- (penje), Gan wa- (wakati, wansi), Kon pha- (phasi, phanja), Lub pe- (peulu), Rwa he- (hejuru), Sot fa- (fase), Umb pa- (palo), Ven fha- (fhasi), Xho pha- (phandle, phantsi, phezu), Zul pha- (phakathi, phandle, phansi, phezulu) , from PBan *pa] = on

paa [Bem mpala, Mwe mhala, Rwa mpala, Sot phala, Ven phala, Zul mpala, from PBan *pada] = antelope

paa [from PBan *pad-] = go up, ascend v.

paa [from PBan *pad-: Bem pala, Gan wala, Her para, Kik hara, Kon phala, Sot fala, Ven fhala, pala, Zul phala] = scrape v.

pacha [Dua diwasa, Fan bear, Her epaha, Kik mahatha, Kon iliphasa, Lin lipasa, Lub pasa, Mwe ivasa, Sho mapatya, Sot mafahla, Tsw mafatlha, Ven lifhata, mafhata, Zul phahla, from PBan *paca] = twin

pafu [Che mphafa, Sho bapu, Sot leswafo, Ven fhafhu, Zul phaphu, from PBan *papu] = lung

paka [from PBan *pak-] = fix boundary v.

paka [Bem mpaka, Kik mbaka, Nya mphaka, Sot phaga, Ven phaha, Xho paka, Zul mpaka, from PBan *paka] = cat

pakana [from PBan *pakan-] = adjacent v.

pakata [from PBan *pakat-] = hold (child), nurse v.

pakia [from PBan *pakid-] = load, put in v.

pale [see pa 'on' and le 'there'; Umb palo] = there

palia [from PBan *padid-] = weed, hoe v.

pamba [Mwe pamba] = decorate v.

pamba [Gan ppamba, Kik mbamba from Per pamba from Gre bombyx] = cotton

pamoja [see pa 'on' and moja; Bem pamo] = together

pana [from PBan *pana] = wide

panda [Bem lupanda, Ven phande, Zul phande, from PBan *panda] = forked pole, fork

panda [Mwe panda, from PBan *panda] = go up v.

panda [Kik handa, from PBan *pand-] = sow, plant v.

pande [from PBan *pande] = block, large piece

panga [Benda panga, from PBan *pang-] = arrange, plan v.

panga [Benda ipenga] = trumpet

panga [Benda lupanga, Kik banga, Lin mompanga, Mwe lupanga, Sho banga, Sot mphaka, Ven lufhanga, from PBan *panga] = knife, machete, sword

panganya [see panga; Gan panga] = stack, pile v.

pangisha [see panga; Gan pangisa] = rent v.

pango [Che phanga, Nya phanga, from PBan *panga] = cave

pangusa [Lin pangusa, from PBan *panagula] = dust, wipe v.

panzi [Bem kapaso, Kik handi, Ven mapanda, from PBan *panji] = grasshopper, locust

papai [Kik babai] = pawpaw

papasa [from PBan *papat-] = touch, stroke, grope v.

papatika [Ven paparika, Zul phapha, from PBan *pap-] = flap, flutter v.

parua [see paa 'scrape'] = scratch together v.

pasaka [Bem ipasaka, Kik bathaka, Lin pasika, Rwa pasika from Por pascoa from Heb pesah] = Easter, Passover

pasi [Kik bathi from Hin] = iron (for shirts etc.)

pasi [Kik bathi, Zul pasi from Ger Pass] = pass, passport

pasua [Sangu pas-, from PBan *pac-] = split v.

pata [Her pata, Mwe bata, Rwa fata, Sot swara, Ven bata, fara, pata, Zul phatha, from PBan *pata] = grab, get v.

patana [from PBan *patan-] = agree v.

paza [see paa] = lift v.

pazia [see paza; Kik mbathiya] = curtain

pekecha [from PBan *pekic-] = drill v.

pekesheni [Kik bigicena from Ban from Eng] = inspection

peleka [from PBan *pedik-] = hand over, send v.

pembe [Lin mpembe, Mwe ipembe, Rwa hembe, from PBan *pembe] = horn, ivory

penda [Kik enda, Rwa henda, from PBan *pend-] = love, desire v.

pendo [see penda; Kik wendo] = love n.

penzi [see penda] = desire, will n.

pepea [Her pepa, Sot fefera, Ven fhefha, Zul phepha, from PBan *pep-] = fan v.

pepo [see pepea; Bem mpepo, Kik heho, Kon imbepo, Lin mpepo, San mhepo, Sot phefo, Ven phepho, Xho phepho] = wind; spirit

pera [Gan ppera, Kik ibera from Por] = guava

peremende [Kik theremende from Ban from Eng] = peppermints, sweets

pesa [Bem ipesa, Kik mbeca from Hin paysa] = money

peta [Bem peta, Her peta, Sot fera, Ven peta, Zul phetha, from PBan *peta] = bend, fold up v.

pete [see peta; Gan peta, Lub pete] = ring n.

pevu [Kon phela, Sot fetsa, fedisa, Ven fhela, Zul phela, from PBan *pela] = mature adj.

pi [Bem pi, Lin pi (wapi), Sho pi (kupi), Umb pi, Ven fhi, Zul phi, from PBan *pi] = which, which place

picha [Kik mbica from Ban from Eng] = picture

piga [from PBan *piig-] = hit, beat v.

pika [Bem ipika, Che phika, Lub ipika, Sho bika, Ven bika, Zul pheka, from PBan *peka] = cook v.

pili [see mbili] = two; second adj.

pilipili [Bem mpilipili, Kik biribiri, Lin pilipili, Mwe mhilipili, Rwa pilipili, Ven phiriphiri, Zul pelepele, from PBan *pidipidi from Gre peperi] = pepper

pima [Bem pima, Gan pima, Kik thima, Lin pima, Mwe pima, Rwa pima, Ven pima, from PBan *pim-] = measure v.

pinda [Dua inda, Kik hinda, Kon phindanya, Mwe pinda, Sho bhenda, Sot fetola, Zul phendu, phinda, from PBan *pind-] = bend, plait, fold v.

pindua [Bem pinduluka, Rwa hindura, from PBan *pindud-] = turn, change v.

pinduka [see pindua; Gan pinduka] = overturn, skid v.

pinduli [from Eng from Fre pendule] = pendulum

pinga [Zul phinga, from PBan *ping-] = plait v.

pinga [Kik thinga, from PBan *ping-] = bar, obstruct v.

pingu [from PBan *pingu] = charm, fetish

pini [Bem pini, Kik mbini, Sho pini from Ban from Eng] = pin

pita [Che pita, Nya pita, from PBan *pit-] = pass, go ahead, surpass v.

pito [see pita] = passage

poa [Gan wola, Her pora, Kik hora, Mwe pola, Sot fola, Ven fhola, Zul phola, from PBan *pod-] = cool v.

pofu [Bem mpofu, Her potu, Lub pofo, Mwe hofu, San pofokhu, Sho pofo-, Sot sefofu, Tsw sefofu, Ven bofu, Zul phumpu, from PBan *popu] = blind

pofu [Bem nsefu, Mwe mboku, Sho mhofu, Sot phofu, phohu, Ven phofu, Xho pofu, Zul phofu, from PBan *poku] = antelope, eland

pokea [Bem poka, Mwe bokela, from PBan *pokid-] = receive v.

polisi [Bem polishi, Kik borithi, Rwa polisi from Ban from Eng] = police

pona [Gan wona, Kik hona, from PBan *pon-] = get well, recover, heal, cured v.

ponda [Ven ponda, from PBan *pond-] = pound, crush, stamp v.

pongo [Mwe mhongo, Rwa hongo, Sot phoko, from PBan *pongo] = antelope, bushbuck

ponyoka [from PBan *pon(i)-] = fall, slip v.

popo [Kik ruhuhu] = bat (animal)

posha [from posho] = provide v.

posho [Kik uboco from Ban from Eng portion] = provision, rations

posta [Kik bothita from Ban from Ita posta] = post

pota [Her potapota, Kon photha, San potha, Sot fora, Zul photha, from PBan *put-] = bend, twist v.

pote [see pa 'on' and ote] = everywhere

potea [see pota] = lost v.

potoka [from PBan *putik-] = bent, twisted v.

povu [Bem ifulo, Fan vul, Kik muhuyu, Ven mapulo, from PBan *pudu] = foam

pua [from PBan *puda] = nose

pua [see feleji] = steel

puku [Fan fo, Zul phuku from PBan *puku] = field rat

puliza [from PBan *pud-] = blow (with mouth) v.

pumbaa [Bem bupuba, bupumbu, from PBan *pub-] = foolish, stupid v.

pumzi [Dua vumse, Ven fumula, Xho phumla, Zul phumula, from PBan *puumud-] = breath

punda [Bem punda, Kik bunda, Lin mpunda, Lub punda, from PBan *punda] = donkey

punga [Mwe punga, Zul phunga, from PBan *pung-] = wave, fan, wave off v.

pungua [Mwe pungula] = decrease v.

pura [Kik hura, Rwa guhura, from PBan *puud-] = thresh v.

pwa [Ven phwama, from PBan *pu] = dry v.

pwani [see pwa and ni 'place'] = dry place, shore

pya [Bem pya, Dua pe, Gan piya, Her pe (pya), Kon phya, Lub pia, Nko sya, Rwa shya, San pya, Sho idzva, Sot swa, fisa (fsa, mpsa), Ven ntswa, Xho tsha, Zul sha, from PBan *pia] = new

R

rabishi [?] = confuse v.

rabsha [see rabishi] = confusion

radhi [from Ara ridha] = approval; goodwill

radi [from Ara racd] = thunder

rafiki [from Ara rafiq] = friend

rafu [from Ara raff] = shelf

raha [from Ara raha] = rest n.

rahisi [from Ara rahis] = cheap

rai [from Ara ray] = view

raia [from Ara racia] = subject, citizen

rais [Mwe laisi from Ban from Ara rais] = president

rakaa [from Ara rakca] = prayer with bows

rakibu [from Ara rakiba] = mount, ride v.

ramadhani [from Ara ramadhan] = fasting month

ramli [from Ara raml] = divination

ramsa [from Per] = fair n.

randa [Kik randa from Per randa] = plane n.

rangi [Bem ilangi, Gan langi, Kik rangi, Rwa rangi from Per rang] = color, paint, dye n.

rasha [from Ara rasha] = spray, daub, smear n.

rasmi [from Ara rasmi] = official adj.

ratibu [from Ara rataba] = arrange v.

ratli [Gan latiri, Kik ratiri from Ban from Ara ratl from Gre litra] = pound n.

raufu [from Ara rawf] = kind adj.

refu [Her re, Kik raya, Lub le, Mwe lihu, Sho refu, Sot telele, Ven lapfu, from PBan *dai(pu)] = long, high adj.

rehani [from Ara rahn] = pledge n.

rehema [from Ara rahma] = mercy

riba [from Ara riba] = usury, interest

ridhaa [from Ara ridha] = agreement

rikebu [Kik merikebu from Ban from Ara markab] = ship, craft

ripota [from Eng] = reporter

ripoti [Bem lipoti, Kik riboti from Ban from Eng] = report

risasi [Kik rithathi from Ban from Ara rasas] = lead, bullet

risiti [Kik rithiti from Ban from Eng] = receipt

rithi [from Ara ritha] = inherit v.

riziki [from Ara rizq] = provision, food

robo [from Ara rubc] = quarter

robota [from Ara rabita] = bundle, bale

roho [Kik roho from Ban from Ara ruh] = spirit, soul

roshani [from Ara rawshan from Per roshan 'roof-light'] = balcony

rubani [from Ara ruban] = captain, pilot

ruhusa [Kik rutha from Ban from Ara ruhsa] = permit, leave; holiday

ruka [Kik ruuga, guruka, Nko guruka, Rwa guruka, Sho bururuka, from PBan *ruka] = fly, jump, leap v.

runinga [from Ger Grundig] = television set

rupia [Kik rubia from Hin rupya] = rupee

rusha [see ruka] = make fly, throw v.

rushwa [Rwa ruswa from Ban from Ara rushwa] = bribe

rutuba [from Ara rutuba] = moisture

ruzuku [from Ara razaqa] = supply (food) v.

S

saa [Bem nsa, Gan ssawa, Kik thaa, Lin sa, Lub saa, Mwe saa, Rwa saha from Ban from Ara saca] = hour; clock, watch

saba [from Ara sabca] = seven

sababu [from Ara sabab] = cause, reason

sabini [from Ara sabcin] = seventy

sabuni [Kik thabuni, Lin sapuni, Rwa sabune from Ban from Ara sabun from Lat sapo, -nis] = soap

saburi [from Ara sabr] = patience, waiting; tranquillity 

sadaka [from Ara sadaqa] = alms, charity

safari [Kik thabari from Ban from Ara safar] = trip, journey, expedition, drive

safi [from Ara saf] = pure; genuine

safina [from Ara safina] = ship, ark

safiri [from Ara safara] = travel v.

safu [from Ara saff] = row, line

saga [Dua sia, Gan sa, Kik thiya, Kon sya, Sot sila, Ven sila, Zul sila, from PBan *ceag-] = grind v.

sahani [Kik thani, Lin sani, Mwe sahani, Rwa sahani from Ban from Ara sahn] = plate, dish; record

sahau [from Ara saha] = forget v.

sahihi [from Ara sahih] = correct, authentic

saidia [from Ara sacida] = help v.

saili [from Ara saala] = ask v.

saka [Gan saka, from PBan *cak-] = hunt, chase, search for v.

sakafu [from Ara saqf] = roof, ceiling

sakini [from Ara sakana] = settle, quiet v.

sala [Bem isali from Ban from Ara sala] = prayer

saladi [Kik tharati, Zul saladi from Ban from Eng] = salad

salama [from Ara salama] = peace; health, safety, robustness

salamu [from Ara salam] = peace; greetings

sali [from Ara sali] = pray v.

salia [Bem shala, Dua sala, Kik tigara, Kon syala, San sagala, Zul sala, from PBan *tigad-] = left, remain v.

salimu [from Ara salima] = greet v.

samaki [Kik thamaki, Lin samaki, Mwe samaki from Ban from Ara samak] = fish n.

samani [from Hin from Per saman] = utensils

samawati [from Ara samawi] = celestial; sky-blue

sambusa [from Per sambuse from Ara sambusak; cf. Hin samosa] = filled pastry

samehe [from Ara samaha] = forgive, be generous v.

samli [Kik thamuri from Ban from Ara samn] = ghee, clarified butter

sana [from Ara sani 'high'] = very

sana [from PBan *tian-] = forge v.

sanaa [from Ara sanca] = handicraft, industry, trade; art

sanamu [Bem nsalamu from Ban from Ara sanam] = idol, image; picture

sanda [from PBan *canda] = shroud, cloth

sandarusi [from Ara sandarusi] = resin, sandarac

sanduku [Gan ssanduko, Kik ithanduku, Lin sanduku, Rwa sanduku from Ban from Ara sanduq] = box, trunk, chest

sanii [from Ara sanaca] = make v.

santuri [from Ara santir from Gre psalterion] = zyther; gramophone

sarabi [from Ara sarab] = mirage

sarafu [from Ara sarf] = spending; coin

sarufi [from Ara sarf] = conjugation; grammar

sasa [Mwe haha] = now

sataranji [from Ara shatranj from Skt chaturanga] = chess

saumu [Kik thaumu from Ban from Ara sawm] = fasting; Lent

saumu [from Ara thawm] = garlic

sauti [from Ara sawt] = sound, voice

sawa [from Ara sawa] = equal

sayari [from Ara sayyara] = planet

sema [Ven sema] = say v.

senti [Kik thendi, Zul senti from Ban from Eng] = cent

seremala [Kik mutharamara from Per shirwani 'roof'] = carpenter

serkali [Kik thirikari from Per sarkari 'of the government'] = government

setiri [from Ara satara] = conceal v.

shaba [Mwe isava from Ban from Ara shabah] = copper

shabaha [from Ara shibh] = likeness, resemblance

shabaha [Kik cabaa] = target

shabihi [from Ara shabaha] = resemble v.

shada [from PBan *cadu] = bead, bunch, cluster

shahada [from Ara shahada] = testimony, creed

shahidi [from Ara shahid] = witness, martyr

shairi [from Ara shicr] = poetry, poem

shaka [from Ara shakk] = doubt, suspicion

Sham [from Ara Sham] = Syria; Damascus

shamasi [from Ara shammas] = deacon

shamba [Kik camba] = field

shanta [from Ara shanta from Tur canta] = bag; suitcase; knapsack

sharabu [from Ara shariba] = drink, absorb v.

shari [from Ara sharr] = evil, adversity

sharifu [from Ara sharif] = noble

sharti [from Ara shart] = term, condition

shati [Bem ishati, Gan sati, Kik cati, Sho shati from Ban from Eng] = shirt

shauku [from Ara shawq] = lust, desire; interest

shauri [from Ara shura] = advice; council

shavu [from PBan *cagu] = cheek

shavu [Mwenda saku, Ven thafu, from PBan *caku] = calf of leg

shayiri [Kik cairi from Ban from Ara shacir] = barley

shehena [from Ara shahn] = load, freight

shemasi [from Ara shammash from Heb] = deacon

shemeji [Lin semeki] = brother-in-law

shenzi [from Per] = uncivilized

sherehe [from Ara sharaha] = glee

sheria [from Ara sharia] = law

sherizi [from Ara shiras from Tur ciris] = glue

shetani [Kik cetani from Ban from Ara shaytan] = evil spirit, devil, fiend, Satan

shiba [from Ara shabica] = sated v.

shika [from PBan *cika] = hold fast v.

shilingi [Kik ciringi from Ban from Eng] = shilling

shimo [from PBan *timo] = hole

shina [Sangu sin-, from PBan *cina] = trunk (of tree), base, source

shinda [Zul sinda, from PBan *kind-] = overcome v.

shindo [Zul sindo, from PBan *kindo] = noise

shingo [Dua nyingo, Fan tsing, Gan singo, Her osengo, Kam ngingo, Kik ngingo, Kon ulusingo, Lin nkingo, Lub shingo, Mwe mhingo, from PBan *kingo] = neck

shirika [from Ara shirka] = partnership; company; office

shiriki [from Ara sharika] = share, partner v.

shoka [Kik ithoka, Lin soka, from PBan *coka] = axe

sho [Gan sona, Lin sona, Lub sona, Sho sona, from PBan *con-] = sew v.

shtaki [Kik thitaka, Mwe shidaki from Ban from Ara ishtaka] = accuse v.

shua [?] = launch (boat) v.

shughuli [from Ara shughl] = business

shujaa [from Ara shujac] = brave; hero

shuka [Gan suka, Kik cuka, Rwa shuka] = loincloth; sheet (on bed)

shukrani [from Ara shukran] = thanks, gratitude

shuku [from Ara shakka] = doubt, suspect v.

shukuru [from Ara shakara] = thank v.

shule [Rwa shuri from Ban from Ger Schule from Gre skhole] = school

shumaa [Kik mucumaa from Ban from Ara shamca] = candle; wick

shungi [see tunga] = plait n.

shuta [Bem sula, Kik thuria, Ven sula, Zul suza, from PBan *cud-] = fart, break wind v.

shuzi [Bem cisushi, Fan nsil, Ven masudzi, tshisudzi, from PBan *cudi] = fart, wind n.

shwari [from Ara] = calm n.

siafu [Kik thuraku, from PBan *cidaku] = ant sp. (army ant)

siagi [see teleza; Kik thiagi, Ven tshiredzi] = butter

siasa [from Ara siyasa] = politics

sifongo [Kik thibanji from Ban from Ara isfanj] = sponge

sifuri [from Ara sifr] = nought, zero

sigara [Kik thigara from Ban from Eng] = cigar

sigareti [Gan ssegereti, Zul sikeleti from Ban from Eng] = cigarette

sihiri [from Ara sihr] = magic, witchcraft

siki [Bem shiki, Kik thiki] = vinegar

sikia [Kik igua from PBan *jigu-] = hear v.

sikio [see sikia] = ear

siku [Che tsiku, Lub tuku, Mwe lushiku] = day

silaha [from Ara silah] = weapon

simama [Zul simama, from PBan *tidam-] = stand v.

simba [Mwe nshimba, Umb simbe, Ven tsimba, Zul nsimba, from PBan *cimba] = lion

simu [Kik thimu] = telegram

sinagogi [Kik thunagogi from Ban from Eng] = synagogue

sindano [Bem lushindano, Kik cindano] = needle

sinema [Bem sinema, Kik thinema from Ban from Eng] = cinema

sinia [from Ara siniya] = tray, plate

sinzia [from PBan *tingid-] = doze, sleepy v.

siri [from Ara sirr] = secret

sisi [Bem tu, Mwe ise, Sot re, Ven ri, Zul si, thi, from PBan *ti] = we

sita [from Ara sita] = six

sitaha [from Ara sith] = surface, deck

sitawi [from Ara] = prosper v.

sitini [from Ara sitin] = sixty

sizi [Sot mosidi, Zul sizi, from PBan *kidi] = soot

skurubu [Kik thikurubu from Ban from Ger Schraube] = screw

sokisi [Kik thogithi, Zul sokisi from Ban from Eng] = socks

soko [Rwa soko from Ban from Ara suq] = market

sokota [Mwe sogota] = twist v.

soma [Bem soma, Gan soma, Kik thoma, Mwe soma, Rwa soma, from PBan *com-] = read v.

staajabu [from Ara isticjaba; see ajabu] = be surprised, wonder v.

stahili [from Ara istahila] = deserve v.

starehe [from Ara istarih; see raha] = rest, repose v.

stimu [Kik thitima from Eng steam] = electricity

suali [from Ara sual] = question

subana [Kik thubana from Ban from Ara kustuban from Per angoshtane] = thimble

subira [see saburi] = patience

sufu [from Ara suf] = wool

sufuria [Kik thuburia, Mwe isufuliya, Rwa safuriya from Ara] = pot (metal)

sugua [Kik theria, from PBan *tiugud-] = rub, wipe v.

suhubi [from Ara suhba] = friend

sujudu [from Ara sajada] = bow down, prostrate v.

suka [Bem suka, Kik thuka] = shake v.

suka [Gan luka, Lub luka, Mwe suka, Sho ruka, Ven luka, Zul aluka, from PBan *dok-] = plait v.

sukari [Gan sukali, Kik cukari, Mwe sukali, Rwa sukali from Ban from Ara sukkar from Gre sakkharon] = sugar

suke [Ven thotshe] = ear of corn

sukuma [see suka] = thrust v.

sulubu [from Ara salaba] = hardness, energy

suluhu [from Ara sulh] = peace; reconciliation

sumu [Kik thumu from Ban from Ara samm] = poison

sura [from Ara sura] = form, image, picture, appearance; list, register; chapter

suruali [Kik thuruari from Ban from Ara sirwal from Per shalwar] = trousers

suza [from PBan *cug-] = wash, rinse v.

swala [from PBan *cuada] = antelope

T

taa [Gan tala, Kik tawa, Mwe tala, Rwa tara] = lamp

taabu [from Ara tacab] = effort, trouble; distress

taamuli [from Ara tacammul] = effort; thoughtfulness

taarifa [from Ara tacrif; see arifu] = report; praise; definition

tabaka [from Ara tabaqa] = layer

tabasamu [from Ara tabasama] = smile v.

tafadhali [from Ara tafaddhal; see fadhili] = please

tafakari [from Ara tafakkara; see fikara] = meditate v.

tafrija [from Ara tafarruj] = recreation

tafsiri [from Ara tafsir; see fasiri] = commentary, explanation; translation

tafuna [Her tatuna, Kon thafuna, Mwe dakuna, Nya tafuna, San thafunya, Sot hlahuna, Umb tekina, Ven tafuna, Zul hlafuna] = chew v.

taga [from PBan *taag-] = lay eggs v.

taharuki [from Ara taharraka; see haraka] = move, hurry v.

tahayari [from Ara tahayyar] = perplexed, ashamed v.

tahiri [from Ara tahara] = circumcise v.

taifa [from Ara tayfa] = group, crew; troop; tribe; nation

taji [Kik tanji from Ban from Ara taj from Per] = crown

tajiri [from Ara tajir] = merchant; wealthy man

taka [Rwa taka, Sot leraga, from PBan *taka] = dirt, earth

taka [Gan taga, from PBan *tak-] = desire, want v.

takabali [from Ara taqabbala; see kibali] = accept v.

takabari [from Ara takabara; see kiburi] = proud v.

takatifu [Bem takatifu, Rwa tagatifu from Ban from Ara] = chosen, holy

takia [from Ara takia] = support; cushion

tako [Bem litako, Che thako, Her etako, Lub tako, Mwe idako, Nya thako, Sot lerago, lesago, Umb taku, Ven shaho, from PBan *tako] = butt, base, end

talaka [from Ara talaq] = divorce n.

talasimu [from Ara tilasm from Gre telesma] = talisman

tama [from Ara tamm] = final

tamaliki [from Ara tamallaka; see miliki] = rule, dominate v.

tamani [from Ara tamanni] = desire

tamba [Dua lamba, Gan tambula, Her tamba, Kon thambalala, Lin tambola, Sot rapela, from PBan *tamb-] = walk (proudly), strut v.

tambaa [Kik tambia, from PBan *tamb-] = stretch, extend v.

tambaa [see tamba] = crawl v.

tambika [Gan tamba, from PBan *tamb-] = offer, sacrifice v.

tambua [from PBan *tambud-] = understand, name, quote v.

tamu [Mwe semu] = sweet

tanabahi [from Ara tanabbuh] = consideration

tanda [Bem tanda, from PBan *tand-] = spread v.

tandabui [see buibui; Bem tandabube] = spider's web

tandala [Bem usansala, from PBan *tondodo] = antelope, kudu

tandika [Kik tandika] = lay, spread v.

tando [see tanda; Mwe tando] = spider's web

tandu [see tando] = centipede

tanga [from PBan *tanga] = sail, mat

tangawizi [Kik tangauthi] = ginger

tangi [itangi from Ban from Eng] = tank, container

tango [Her etanga, Sot leraka, Ven luranga, shanga, Zul thanga, from PBan *tanga] = pumpkin, calabash, gourd, cucumber

tano [Bem fisano, Dua tanu, Gan ttano, Her tano, Kik ithano, Kon hano, Lin mitano, Lub tano, Nko tano, Mwe tano, Nya sanu, Rwa tanu, San sano, Sho shanu, Sot hlano, Tsw tlhano, Umb tanu, Ven thanu, Zul hlanu, from PBan *taano] = five

tanuu [Bem itanuna from Ban from Ara tannur] = kiln

tanzi [see tanda] = loop

tanzia [from Ara tanzil] = announcement

tapika [Kik tahika] = vomit v.

tarabu [from Ara tarab] = joy; music; concert

taraja [from Ara tarraja] = hope

tarakimu [from Ara tarqim] = document; numbering

taratibu [from Ara tartib] = order; composition

tarehe [from Ara tarih] = history; date; chronicles

tarizi [from Ara taraza] = embroider v.

tasa [Mwe dasa, from PBan *taaca] = barren, sterile (animal)

tasa [from Ara tas] = basin

tasbihi [from Ara tasbih] = rosary

taslimu [from Ara taslim; see salamu] = handover, delivery, surrender; payment

taswira [from Ara taswir] = picture, portrait; map; description

tataga [Ven ratha, from PBan *ta(n)t-] = pass, cross, go over v.

tatu [from PBan *tat-] = tangle v.

tatu [Bem fitatu, Dua lalo, Gan ssatu, Her tatu, Kik thatu, Kon thathu, Lin misato, Lub sato, Nko shatu, Mwe datu, Nya tatu, Rwa tatu, San thathu, Sho tatu, Sot tharo, Tsw tharo, Umb taatu, Ven raru, ntharu, Zul thathu, from PBan *tatu] = three

tauni [from Ara tacwn] = plague

tausi [from Ara taws from Gre taos] = peacock

tawala [from Ara tawala] = rule v.

tawi [Mwe itamvi, Sangi taki, Sot thabe, Ven davhi, lutavhi, thavhi, from PBan *tabi] = branch

taya [Mwe isaja, from PBan *caja] = cheek, jaw, temple

tayari [from Ara tayyar] = ready

tazama [from PBan *tad-] = look at v.

tega [Bem tea, Kik tega, Lub teya, Mwe tega, Sot thea, rea, raya, Tsw thaea, raela, Ven rea, Zul thiya, from PBan *teg-] = (set) trap v.

tego [see tega] = charm n.

tekenya [Bem tekunya, from PBan *tekeny-] = tickle, shake v.

tekenya [see tekenya; Zul thekenya] = jigger, flea

teketeke [from PBan *tek-] = soft v.

teleza [Bem telela, Kon thelemuka, Sot thelela (relela), Ven redza, Xho theleza, Zul thele, sheleza, from PBan *ted-] = slip, slide v.

teli [from Per tela] = gold; thread (of gold), braid (of gold)

tema [Bem tema, Che tema, Gan tema, Kik tema, Kon themela, Mwe tema, Rwa tema, San thema, Sho tema, Sot rema, Tsw rema, Ven rema, from PBan *tem-] = cut, slash, chop, hew v.

tembo [from PBan *tembo] = elephant

tenda [from PBan *tend-] = do

tende [Kik ndende, Sot lerete, Vende dzhende, Zul sende, from PBan *kende] = dates

teta [Ven rera, Zul thetha, from PBan *tet-] = speak, dispute v.

tete [Bem itete, Mwe idete, from PBan *tete] = reed

tetea [from PBan *tetid-] = cackle v.

teua [Kik thuura, Sot hlaola, Ven taula, from PBan *taud-] = pick, choose v.

tetemeka [Bem tutuma, Mwe ditima, Sot tetema, Zul tetema, from PBan *tetem-] = shake, tremble v.

thabiti [from Ara thabit] = firm, steady

thawabu [from Ara thawab] = reward

thelathini [from Ara thalathin] = thirty

theluji [Kik tharunji from Ban from Ara thalj] = snow

thamani [from Ara thamn] = price, value

themanini [from Ara thamnin] = eighty

thenashara [from Ara ithna cashara] = twelve

thuluthu [from Ara thulth] = third part

tia [Bem tea, Dua te, Sot thea, from PBan *tea] = put v.

tii [from Ara taic] = obedient

tikisa [Zul tekezela, from PBan *tek-] = shake v.

tikiti [Bem itikiti, Gan tikiti, Kik tigiti, Sho tikiti, Zul thikithi from Ban from Eng] = ticket

timia [Mwe timila] = complete v.

timu [Kik timu, Zul timu from Ban from Eng] = team

tini [from Ara tin] = fig

tisa [from Ara tisca] = nine

tishari [from Per teshale] = lighter ship

tisini [from Ara tiscin] = ninety

toa [from Ban] = offer, put forth v.

toba [from Ara tawba] = penitence, repentance

toboa [Kik tobora, from PBan *tubud- from *tub-] = bore, pierce v.

tochi [Bem toki, Gan ttoci, Kik toci, Sot thotshi, Zul thoshi from Ban from Eng] = torch, flashlight

tofali [Bem itafwali, Kik itubari, Lub tafwadi from Ban from Ara tufal] = clay; brick

tofauti [from Ara tafawut] = difference

tohara [from Ara tahara] = purity

tomba [Gan tomba, Zul thomba, from PBan *tomb-] = copulate v.

tona [Bem tona, Gan tonnya, Mwe tona, from PBan *ton-] = drip v.

tongoza [see ongoa; Kik tongoria] = lead, seduce; precede v.

tope [Bem iloba, Lub tapi, Ven matope, from PBan *tope] = mud

tosha [Mwe tosha] = enough v.

tota [from PBan *tot-] = sink v.

tovu [from PBan *cob-] = lacking

towashi [from Ara tawashi] = eunuch

towe [see udongo; Zul dongwe, longwe] = clay

towea [?] = season v.

toweka [from PBan *dob-] = disappear v.

tua [Gan tula, Lub tula, Zul thula, from PBan *tuud-] = set down, stop, quiet v.

tufani [from Ara tufan] = flood; storm

tuhuma [from Ara tuhma] = suspicion

tukana [Bem tuka, Dua loa, Her tukana, Kon thuka, Sot roga, Zul thuka, from PBan *tukan-] = abuse v.

tukutu [Ven thukunya, Zul thuku] = restless, excited

tuli [see tua] = quiet

tuma [Bem tuma, Dua loma, Fan lum, Gan tuma, Her tuma, Kik tuma, Kon thuma, Lin toma, Lub tuma, Mwe tuma, Nya tumiza, Sho tuma, Sot roma, Ven ruma, Zul thuma, from PBan *tum-] = send v.

tumaini [from Ara itiman] = confidence; hope

tumba [Bem tumba, Gan tumbuka, Zul thumba, from PBan *tumb- 'swell'] = bud

tumbako [Kik mbaki, Mwe itumbati from Hin tambaku] = tobacco

tumbili [Mwe nhumbili, from PBan *tumbidi] = monkey

tumbo [Mwe mhumbi, Sho dumbu, Ven thumbu, Zul thumbu, from PBan *tumbo] = abdomen, stomach

tunga [see funga; Bem tunga, Gan tunga, Mwe tunga] = compose, put together v.

tupu [Lub tupu, Mwe duhu, from PBan *tupu] = empty, vain; naked

twaa [Bem twala, Gan toola, Her twara, Kik twara, Kon thwala, San thwala, Sot rwala, Ven hwala, rula, Zul thwala, from PBan *tuad-] = take, lead, carry v.

twiga [Kik nduiga, Mwe nhwiga, Rwa twiga, Sho twiza, from PBan *tuiga] = giraffe

U

ua [Kik uraga, Mwe vulaga, Sho uraya, Sot bolaya, Ven bulayo, vhulaha, Zul bulala, from PBan *budag-] = kill v.

ua [see uga] = court n.

ua [Bem iluba, Kik ihua, Lub luba, Mwe iuwa, Sho ruva, Sot leloba, Ven dzuvha, Zul luba, from PBan *duba] = flower

uaguzi [see agua; Kik uraguri] = divination

uajemi [from Ara cajam] = Persia

uambukizio [see ambukiza] = infection

uangalizi [see angalia] = care, attention

uapo [see apa] = oath

ubani [Bem bubani, Kik ubani from Ban from Ara luban] = olibanum, frankincense, incense

ubao [Bem mbao, Kik rubau] = plank, board

ubavu [Bem Lubfu, Kik rubaru, Lub bavu, Mwe luvazu, Sho mbabvu, Ven luvhabvu, mbabvu, from PBan *badu] = rib, side

ubawa [see bawa] = wing

ubongo [Bem bongobongo, Fan boo, Lin bongo, Lub bongo, Mwe vongo, Sot bjoko, Tsw boboko, Ven mwongo, from PBan *bongo] = brain

uchaguzi [see chagua] = election

uchao [see cha] = dawn

uchawi [Bena umuhavi, MaKon uhawi, Yao usabi, from PBan *cabi] = witchcraft

uchovu [Mwe zova] = tiredness

udevu [see kidevu] = hair (of beard)

udhi [see adha] = annoy v.

udhuru [from Ara cudhr] = excuse n.

udogo [see dogo] = smallness

udongo [Mwe vulongo, Sho dongo, Sot boloko, Zul dongwe, longwe, from PBan *dongo] = soil

udugu [see ndugu] = kinship

ufa [Ven muna, Zul fa, from PBan *kua] = crack, cleft

ufagio [see fagia; Bem ceswa, Lub weyo, Mwe sheyo, Ven luswielo] = broom

ufalme [see mfalme] = kingdom

ufundi [see funda] = craftsmanship

ufunguo [see funga; Bem lufungulo, Kik kihinguro, Lub fungula, Rwa funguzo] = key

ufupi [see fupi; Bem bwipi, Kik ukuhi] = shortness

ufuta [see mafuta] = oil-seed

uga [Mwe lubuga, Rwa buga, from PBan *buga] = open space in village, village square, threshing floor

ugali [Mwe vugali, from PBan *gadi] = mush, pap; stiff porridge

ugolo [Mwe vugolo] = snuff n.

ugomvi [see gomba] = quarrel n.

ugonjwa [see mgonjwa] = sickness

ugua [Zul gula, from PBan *jugud-] = ill v.

ugwe [see kigwe] = cord

uharibifu [see haribu] = destruction

uhuru [see huru; Kik uhuru] = freedom

ujane [see mjane] = widowhood

uji [from PBan *igi] = thin porridge

ujima [from Ara ijmac; see jamaa] = union, association

ujira [from Ara ujra; see ajiri] = rent, wages

ujinga [see mjinga] = folly

ujuzi [see jua; Sho ruzivo, Ven ndivho] = knowledge

ukali [see kali; Bem bukali] = fierceness, severity

ukanda [from PBan *kanda] = strap, belt

ukindu [Kik mukindu, from PBan *kindu] = palm tree, palm leaf strip

ukoa [see koa] = belt

ukungu [Bem lukungu, Xho kungu, Zul nkungu, from PBan *kungu] = mist, fog, dust

ukuta [Rwa kuta, from PBan *kuta] = wall, fence

ulalo [Bem bulalo, Lub lalo, Rwa raro, from PBan *dado] = bridge

ulaya [Bem bulaya, Gan bulaya, Kik ruraya, Mwe vulaya, Rwa uburayi from Hin vilayat from Ban from Ara wilaya; see wilaya] = Europe

ulezi [Mwe vulegi, from PBan *degi] = millet sp.

ulezi [see lea; Bem buleshi] = upbringing, education

ulimbo [Bem bulimbo, Mwe wilembo, from Ban] = birdlime

ulimi [Bem lulimi, Dua eyeme, Kik rurimi, Kon ululimi, Lin lolemu, Lub dimi, Mwe lulimi, Rwa uluimi (indimi), Sho rurimi, Sot leleme, Ven lulimi, Xho lwimi, Zul limi, from PBan *dimi] = tongue

uliza [Gan bulira, Kik uria, Mwe vulegi, from PBan *buudid-] = ask v.

ulozi [see loga; Bem buloshi, Kik urogi] = witchcraft, sorcery

uma [Bem suma, Gan luma, Her rumata, Kik ruma, Kon luma, Lub suma, Mwe luma, Rwa ruma, Sando luma, Sho ruma, Sot loma, Tsw loma, Ven luma, Zul luma, from PBan *dum-] = bite v.

uma [Kik uma] = fork

umande [Ven mwando] = dew

umba [Bem bumba, Kik umba, Kon vumba, Lub bumba, fumba, Mwe vumba, San vumba, Sot bopa, Ven vhumba, Zul bumba, fumba, from PBan *bumb-] = create, mould, shape, form v.

umbo [from umba; Ven luvhumbo] = form, shape n.

umbu [from PBan *dumbu] = brother (his), sister (his)

umeme [from PBan *me] = lightning

umika [Gan lumika, from PBan *dumik-] = cup, bleed by cupping v.

umio [Kik mumero, Lub minu, from PBan *mido] = throat (internal)

umri [from Ara cumr] = lifetime, age

umuka [Bem buka, Lub jumuka, Rwa byuka, vuka, Ven vuwa, Xho mka, Zul muka, vuka, from PBan *jimuk-] = rise, wake up v.

unga [Bem bunga, Gan wunga, from PBan *junga] = flour

unga [Her vonga, Kon vungana, Mwe lunga, San vungana, Sot boka, Xho bhunga, Zul bunga, from PBan *bung-] = wrap, gather, join v.

ungo [from PBan *jungo] = basket (for winnowing)

ungua [from PBan *dungud-] = burn, singe v.

ungulia [Kik rungurira, Xho lugulela, Zul lungulila, from PBan *dungudid-] = heartburn v.

unguza [see ungua; Kik rungura] = burn, scorch v.

uongo [Kik urongo, from PBan *dongo] = lie, falsehood

upande [see pande] = side, piece

upara [Bem ipala, Fan fee, Lub bala, Sot lefatla, Tsw lefatla, from PBan *pada] = baldness

upawa [see kipawa] = ladle

upendo [see pendo] = love n.

upeo [see kipeo] = summit, end

upepo [see pepea; Lub pepele, Sho mhepo, Tsw phefo] = wind n.

upishi [see pika] = cookery

upote [see pota] = bowstring

uradhi [see radhi] = satisfaction

urefu [see refu; Rwa rebure, Ven vhulaphu] = length

urujuani [from Ara arjawan] = purple

ushanga [see changa; Lub sanga] = beads

usiku [Bem bushiku, Fan lu, Nya usiku, Dua su, Her outuku, Kam utuku, Kik utuku, Kon uvusiku, Lub fuku, Mwe vuziku, San lusiku, Sho usiku, Sot bosego, Ven vhusiku, Zul suku, from PBan *tuku] = night

uso [Bem menso, Fan si, Kik uthiu, Mwe vushu, Sho uso, Zul so, from PBan *cu] = face

uta [see vita; Bem buta, Che uta, Her outa, Kik uta, Lub buta, Mwe vuta, Sot bora, Tsw bora, Ven vhura] = bow n.

utambaazi [see tambaa] = trail

utambi [Benda lutambo, Kik rutambi] = wick

utenzi [see tenda] = poem

utomvu [from PBan *tombu] = sap

uume [see mume] = penis

uvundo [see vunda] = smell, stench

uwingu [see wingu] = sky

uza [Che gula, Kik gura, Mwe guja, Nya gula, Rwa gura, from PBan *gud(i)-] = sell (buy) v.

uzani [from Ara wazn] = balance, weight

uzazi [see zaa; Kik uciari] = birth

uzi [Gan zi, Kik uuthi, Lub nji, Mwe vuzi, from PBan *di] = thread

V

vaa [Bem fwika, fwala, Dua boto, Her zara, Kon fwala, Lub vwala, Mwe zwala, San fwala, Sot tswara, Umb uala, from PBan *duad-] = dress, wear v.

vazi [see vaa] = garment

vika [see vaa] = clothe v.

vimba [Bem fimba, Kik imba, Lin vimba, Mwe vimba, Sot vipa, Ven vhimba, zwimba, Zul vimba, from PBan *bimb-] = swell v.

viringana [Bem bulunga, Mwe vilinga, from PBan *biding-] = round v.

vita [Bem fita, Dua bila, Her ovita, Kik mbita, Kon uvwithe, Lub vita, Sot -ra (dira, mogwera), Umb ta, Ven -ra (tshira), Zul tha, from PBan *taa] = war

vua [see vaa; Bem fula, Lub vula, Mwe zula] = undress v.

vua [Gan vuba, Xho vuba, from PBan *bub-] = fish v.

vua [Fan yop, Gan loba, Lub loba, Mwe lova, Sot duba, Xho duba, from PBan *dub-] = fish v.

vuja [Sot dutla, Ven bvuda, Zul vuza, from PBan *duidi-] = leak v.

vuka [from PBan *cabuk-] = cross v.

vuke [see fukia] = vapor, steam

vukuta [Mwe fuguta, from PBan *dukut-] = blow bellows v.

vuli [Lin elili, Lub ledi, Mwe lili, Zul lili, from PBan *didi] = shade

vuma [Sot duma, modumo, Zul duma, from PBan *dum-] = buzz, rumble v.

vumbua [Gan vumbula, Kik rumbura, Rwa vumbura] = uncover, discover v.

vumilia [Sot dumela] = bear v.

vumba [from PBan *dumba] = bad smell n.

vumbi [from PBan *gumbi] = dust

vuna [Sot buna, Zul vuna, from PBan *bun-] = reap, harvest n.

vunda [Ven unda, Zul vunda, from PBan *gund-] = smell, mouldy, rotten v.

vunde [see vunda] = smelly, tainted food

vunja [Gan vuna, Rwa vuna, from PBan *bun(j)-] = break v.

vuta [Kik ruta, Mwe luta, from PBan *dut-] = pull v.

W

wa [Bem ba, Dua be, Gan ba, Rwa ba, San va, Sot ba, Ven vha, Zul ba, from PBan *ba] = be v.

waa [Lub baja, Sot mmala, Umb vela, Ven vala, Zul bala, from PBan *bada] = speckle, patch, blotch

wadi [from Ara wadi] = watercourse, desert stream; valley

wafaransa [Kik mubaranja from Por] = French

wajibu [from Ara wajib] = obligatory, prescribed; proper; important

wajihi [from Ara wajh] = face, countenance

waka [Mwe vaka, vacha, Rwa aka, Zul basa, from PBan *bak-] = burn v.

wakala [from Ara wikala] = agency, representation, proxy; ministry

wakati [from Ara waqt] = time

wakf [from Ara waqf] = foundation, fund; comma, pause

wakia [from Ara uqia from Lat uncia] = ounce

wakili [from Ara wakil] = agent, representative, spokesman; minister

wali [Mwe wali] = rice

wamba [from PBan *bamb-] = apply by stretching v.

wanga [Kik wanga] = starch

wapi [see pi] = where

waraka [from Ara waraqa] = letter, note

waridi [from Ara ward] = rose

wasaa [from Ara wasac] = width; comfort

washa [Bem baba, Kon vava, Sot baba, from PBan *bab-] = itch v.

washa [see waka] = kindle, light v.

wasifu [from Ara wasf] = description

wasili [from Ara wusul] = arrival

wastani [from Ara wastani] = mediocre, average

wavu [Kik wabu, from PBan *jabu] = net

wayo [Lub wayo, Sot lenao, Ven lwayo, Zul nyawo, from PBan *jajo] = footprint

waza [Her vara, Kon vala, Rwa bara, San vasa, Sot bala, Ven vhala, Zul bala, from PBan *bad-] = count, reckon v.

wazi [from Per baz] = open adj.

waziri [from Ara wazir] = minister

weka [Bem bika, Gan bika, Kik iga, Kon vika, San vikha, Sot bea, Ven vhea, Zul beka, from PBan *biik-] = put v.

wema [see ema] = goodness

wembe [Gan wembe, Kik wembe, from PBan *gembe] = razor

wengu [from PBan *bengu] = spleen, milt

wewe [Bem iwe, Che iwe, Gan ggwe, Kik wee, Lub wewe, Mwe veve, Rwa wowe, Umb ove, Zul we, from Ban] = you

weza [Mwe weja, from PBan *baac-] = can v.

wilaya [from Ara wilaya] = province, district

wima [Bem ima, Che ima, Gan yima, Mwe ima, imilika, Sot ema, Ven ima, Zul ma, from PBan *jim-] = erect, standing

wimbi [Mwe ivimbi, Ven vhimbi, from PBan *bimbi] = wave n.

wimbo [see imba; Bem lwimbo, Che nyimbo, Gan yimba, Kik ruimbo, Ven luimbo] = song

winda [Umb binda] = hunt v.

wingi [see ingi; Kik uingi] = plenty, abundance

wingu [ from PBan *bingu] = sky, cloud

wino [Kik wino] = ink

wizara [from Ara wizara] = ministry

woga [Kik guoya, Lub owa, Mwe vova, from PBan *joga] = fear n.

Y

yabisi [from Ara yabis] = dry

yahudi [Kik muyahudi from Ban from Ara yahud from Heb yehudi] = Jew

yai [Bem mani, Gan gi, Lub yi, Mwe igi, Rwa gi, Sho zai, Sot legae, Ven gai, from PBan *jaji] = egg

yakini [from Ara yaqin] = certainly

yamini [from Ara yamin] = right hand

yamkini [from Ara imkan] = possibility, ability

yatima [from Ara yatim] = orphan

yeye [Lin ye, Sho iye, Umb eye, Zul ye, from Ban] = he

yumba [Mwe yumba, from Ban] = stagger v.

yunani [from Ara yunani from Gre iones] = Greek

Z

zaa [Dua ya, Gan zaala, Kik ciara, Kon umfyele, Mwe wyala, Rwa byara, Sot tswala, Tsw tsala, Ven dzwala, Zul zala, tshala, from PBan *biad-] = bear child v.

zabibu [Kik thabibu, from Ban from Ara zabib] = raisins, grapes

zaburi [Kik thaburi, Rwa zaburi from Ban from Ara zabur] = psalm

zaidi [from Ara zayid] = supplemented; more

zaka [from Ara zaka] = tithe

zama [Gan zaama, from Ban] = sink v.

zamani [from Ara zaman] = time

zana [from Ara zina] = fittings; ornament, decoration; luxury, jewels; weapons

zebaki [from Ara zaibaq] = mercury

zeituni [from Ara zaytun] = olive

zia [Dua ia, Gan zira, Her zera, Sot ila, Ven ila, Zul zila, PBan *gid-] = abstain, avoid, hate, taboo v.

ziada [from Ara ziyada] = surplus, increase n.

ziara [from Ara ziyara] = visit n.

ziba [Fan dzi, Gan ziba, Mwe chiva, Zul ziba, from PBan *dib-] = stop up, plug v.

zika [see ficha; Bem shika, Gan zika, Her sisika, Kik thika, Lub jika, Mwe jika] = bury v.

zima [Bem shima, Dua dima, Fan dzim, Gan zima, Her zema, Kon sima, Lub jima, Mwe zima, San sima, Sho dzimura, Sot tima, Ven dzima, Zul cima, from PBan *dim-] = extinguish v.

zima [Kik gima, Lub jima, Zul zima, from PBan *gima] = whole, healthy, sound

zinaa [from Ara zina] = adultery

zinga [Dua dingele, Gan zinga, Her rizenga, Lub jinga, Sot dika, Ven dzinga, Zul zinga, from PBan *ding-] = turn, twist; go round v.

zito [Dua dila, Gan zito, Kik ritu, Kon sitho, Lin zito, Lub jito, Mwe dito, from PBan *dito] = heavy

ziwa [Bem ishiba, Dua madiba, Her omeva, Kik iria, Kon ikisiva, Lin liziba, Lub jiba, Rwa riba, Sot sediba, Umb ba, Ven dzivha, Zul ziba, from PBan *diba] = pool, lake; breast

zohali [from Ara dhahl] = forgetting, oblivion

zonga [Gan zunga, from PBan *diong-] = wind, turn round v.

zua [Bem shula, Sot thula, from PBan *diud-] = pull out, unearth, bring to light v.

zulia [from Ara] = carpet

zulika [Zul zula, from Ban] = dizzy v.

zumari [from Ara zummara] = flute

zunguka [see zonga; Zul zungula, zunguzane, from Ban] = go round v.

zuri [Kiv zuri, from Ban] = nice

zuri [from Ara zur] = lie; perjury

***

Sources:            

1. Meinhof, Carl: Grundriss einer Lautlehre der Bantusparchen (Leipzig, 1899)

2. Schoenbrun, D. L.: Historical Reconstruction &c. (Koeln, 1997)

3. Hoch, M.: Bemba Dictionary (New York, 1998)

4. Barlow, A. R.: Kikuyu Dictionary (Oxford, 2001)

5. Akowuah, T. A.: Lingala Dictionary (New York, 1996)

6. Kriel, T.J.: Popular Northern Sotho Dictionary (Pretoria, 1994)

7. Mawadza, A.: Shona Dictionary (New York, 2000)

8. Moeketsi, R.H.: Southern Sotho Dictionary (Jeppestown, 1998)

9. Perrott, D. V.: Swahili Dictionary (Sevenoaks, 1992)

10. Le Roux, J. C.: Tswana Dictionary (Jeppestown, 1999)

11. Fodor, I.: Introduction to the History of Umbundu (Budapest, 1983)

12. Warmelo, N.J. van: Venda Dictionary (Pretoria, 1989)

13. McLaren, J.: A New Concise Xhosa Dictionary (Cape Town, 1994)

14. Doke, C M. et al.: Zulu Dictionary (Jo’burg, 1999)

Online resources:

1. CBOLD (Comparative Bantu Online Dictionary)

2. Alpha Dictionary (Nkore, &c.)

3. Chewa Dictionary (Mtenje 2001)

4. Ganda Dictionary (Snoxall 1967)

5. Rwanda Dictionary (Paradis)

6. Sangu Dictionary (Ndaillac 1995)

7. Sukuma Dictionary (Mann 1966)

Abbreviations:   

Ara = Arabic

Ban = Bantu

Bem = Bemba

Che = Chewa (Chichewa)

Chi = Chinese

Dua = Duala

Eng = English

Eth = Ethiopian

Fan = Fang

Fre = French

Gan = Ganda

Ger = German

Gre = Greek

Heb = Hebrew

Her = Herero

Hin = Hindi

Ita = Italian

Kam = Kamba

Kik = Kikuyu

Kiv = Kivinza

Kon = Konde

Lat = Latin

Lin = Lingala

Lub = Luba (Chiluba)

Mwe = Mwezi (Nyamwezi)

Nko = Nkore

Nya = Nyanja (Kinyanja)

PBan = Proto-Bantu

Per = Persian

Por = Portuguese

Run = Rundi (Kirundi)

Rwa = Rwanda (Kinyarwanda)

San = Sango

Sho = Shona

Skt = Sanskrit

Sot = Sotho

SSot = Southern Sotho

Suk = Sukuma

Tsw = Tswana (Setswana)

Tur = Turkish

Umb = Umbundu

Ven = Venda

Xho = Xhosa

Zul = Zulu

Notes:

Nya (Kinyanja) is the same as Che (Chichewa) unless indicated separately

Sot (Sotho) is Northern Sotho unless indicated otherwise;

Tsw (Tswana) is the same as Sotho unless indicated separately;

Xho (Xhosa) is the same as Zul (Zulu) unless indicated separately

 

 

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