100 Borrowed Words: How English Embraced Other Languages
Have you ever wondered why the English language feels like a giant melting pot?
That’s because it is! English has borrowed thousands of words from other languages over centuries, making it one of the most diverse and fascinating languages on the planet.
But what are English words borrowed from other languages, and why does this borrowing happen?
Today, we’ll explore these questions and more to discover the beauty of an evolving language.
What Are English Words Borrowed From Other Languages?
Borrowed words, also known as “loanwords,” are terms that English has adopted from other languages and made its own.
These words often retain their original meanings but sometimes take on new nuances in English. Think of terms like “café” from French or “tsunami” from Japanese—they’re part of everyday English now but come with their unique cultural flair.
Below are a few borrowed words and their origins to get you started:
- Piano (Italian)
- Ballet (French)
- Tattoo (Samoan)
- Safari (Arabic)
- Kung fu (Chinese)
Borrowed words can cover everything from food to technology to emotions. Without them, English wouldn’t be nearly as rich or expressive.
100 English words borrowed from other languages
| English Word | Origin Language | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Algebra | Arabic | Branch of mathematics involving equations |
| Alcohol | Arabic | A distilled liquid used in beverages or antiseptics |
| Coffee | Arabic | A popular brewed beverage |
| Ramen | Japanese | A noodle soup dish |
| Sushi | Japanese | Vinegared rice with seafood or vegetables |
| Emoji | Japanese | Icon or image used in digital communication |
| Tsunami | Japanese | Large wave caused by underwater disturbances |
| Ballet | French | A classical dance form |
| Genre | French | A style or category |
| Bouquet | French | An arrangement of flowers |
| Café | French | A small coffee shop |
| Mirage | French | Optical illusion often seen in deserts |
| Siesta | Spanish | Midday nap or rest |
| Guerrilla | Spanish | Small independent group fighting in conflict |
| Ranch | Spanish | A farm or large property for raising livestock |
| Chocolate | Spanish (Nahuatl) | A sweet food made from cacao |
| Tomato | Spanish (Nahuatl) | A type of fruit used in cooking |
| Coyote | Spanish (Nahuatl) | A type of wild canine |
| Pajamas | Hindi | Loose-fitting clothes for sleeping |
| Karma | Hindi | The concept of actions determining future outcomes |
| Jungle | Hindi | Dense forest |
| Yoga | Sanskrit | A disciplined form of physical and mental exercises |
| Avatar | Sanskrit | A manifestation or form, often in digital contexts |
| Nirvana | Sanskrit | State of ultimate peace or liberation |
| Panda | Nepali | A black-and-white bear native to Asia |
| Guru | Hindi/Sanskrit | Spiritual teacher or guide |
| Safari | Arabic/Swahili | An expedition to observe wildlife |
| Algebra | Arabic | Branch of mathematics |
| Bazaar | Persian | A marketplace |
| Caravan | Persian | Group of travelers in a convoy |
| Denim | French | Durable cotton fabric originally from Nîmes |
| Champagne | French | Sparkling wine from the Champagne region |
| Carnival | Italian | A festive event often with costumes |
| Pizza | Italian | A dish made of dough topped with ingredients |
| Opera | Italian | Theatrical performance combining music and drama |
| Spaghetti | Italian | Long, thin pasta strands |
| Ghetto | Italian | Area of a city typically inhabited by minorities |
| Volcano | Italian | Mountain that erupts with lava and ash |
| Zebra | Portuguese | Black-and-white striped animal |
| Marmalade | Portuguese | Jelly or jam made from citrus fruits |
| Banana | Portuguese/Arabic | A tropical fruit |
| Tattoo | Samoan | Body art created with ink and needles |
| Taboo | Tongan | Prohibited or restricted by custom or belief |
| Igloo | Inuit | Ice dwelling made by the Inuit |
| Kayak | Inuit | Small boat paddled by hand |
| Hammock | Taino | Hanging bed made of net or fabric |
| Barbecue | Taino | Method of cooking over an open flame |
| Tobacco | Taino | Plant used for making cigars and cigarettes |
| Chocolate | Nahuatl | A sweet treat made from cacao |
| Tomato | Nahuatl | Red fruit used in cooking |
| Chipotle | Nahuatl | Smoked and dried jalapeño chili |
| Chile | Nahuatl | Spicy fruit of plants used in cooking |
| Adobe | Arabic | Building material made from earth and straw |
| Sofa | Arabic | A cushioned seat or couch |
| Zero | Arabic | The number representing nothing |
| Safari | Swahili | Journey or expedition to observe wildlife |
| Robot | Czech | Machine programmed to perform tasks |
| Pistol | Czech | Small firearm |
| Polka | Czech | Lively dance with music |
| Kindergarten | German | Early childhood educational institution |
| Wanderlust | German | Strong desire to travel |
| Blitz | German | Sudden and intensive attack or effort |
| Pretzel | German | Baked bread snack in a twisted knot shape |
| Quartz | German | Mineral commonly used in jewelry |
| Angst | German | Anxiety or nervousness |
| Graffiti | Italian | Street or wall art |
| Lasagna | Italian | Layered pasta dish with cheese and sauce |
| Mafia | Italian | Organized crime syndicate |
| Umbrella | Italian | Device for rain protection |
| Pizza | Italian | Round bread with toppings |
| Maestro | Italian | Skilled master in arts or music |
| Tsunami | Japanese | Large ocean wave caused by earthquakes |
| Tycoon | Japanese | Powerful businessperson |
| Karaoke | Japanese | Singing along to music without lyrics vocally |
| Haiku | Japanese | Short form of poetry |
| Croissant | French | Flaky, buttery pastry |
| Ballet | French | Artistic dance form |
| Chef | French | Professional cook or head of a kitchen |
| Fashion | French | Trends and styles in clothing |
Why Did English Borrow Words From Other Languages?
To answer why did English borrow words from other languages, we need to take a trip through history. English has been shaped by a variety of cultural influences over thousands of years. Here’s a quick rundown of why borrowing came naturally to English speakers:
- Trade and Exploration
When English-speaking traders and explorers traveled the world, they picked up new words to describe unfamiliar things. For instance, the spice trade brought terms like curry (Tamil) and paprika (Hungarian) into English. - Conquests and Migration
The Norman Conquest in 1066 marked a huge influx of French vocabulary into English. Words like government, justice, and fashion all have French roots. Similarly, the influence of Latin, Norse, and other languages arose through conquests and colonization. - Cultural Exchange
English speakers have always been curious about the arts, philosophy, and sciences of other cultures, borrowing words like opera (Italian) and yoga (Sanskrit) to enrich their vocabulary. - Convenience
Sometimes, it’s just easier to adopt a word than to create one from scratch. Why invent another word for “tsunami” when the Japanese word already communicates it perfectly?
This constant borrowing reflects how open and adaptable English has always been.
Read More: 60 Examples Of Compound Sentences
Why Does English Borrow Words From Other Languages?
It’s not just a matter of history. Language evolves to meet the needs of its speakers. But why does English borrow words from other languages specifically? The answer lies in its desire to remain relevant, flexible, and inclusive.
- New Concepts and Ideas
When English speakers encounter foreign objects, foods, or customs, it’s only natural to adopt the original word. This is why we say sushi instead of inventing a whole new name for it. - Global Influence
English is a global language today, but in its earlier stages, it wasn’t as widespread. Borrowing helped English grow into the international powerhouse it is now. - Precision and Depth
Sometimes, borrowed words are simply better at expressing specific ideas. For example, the German word schadenfreude (pleasure from another’s trouble) has no true English equivalent. Bringing it into English allows for richer expression. - Cultural Appreciation
Borrowing words is a reflection of respect and interest in other cultures. It shows an acknowledgment of where ideas or customs originate.
How Many English Words Are Borrowed From Other Languages?
Now, for the big question—how many English words are borrowed from other languages? While exact figures are hard to pin down, linguists estimate that close to 80% of English vocabulary has roots in other languages. Yes, you heard that right!
Here’s a quick breakdown of some sources of borrowed words in English:
| Language Origin | Approximate Influence on English | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| French | 28% | Cuisine, Boulevard, Entrepreneur |
| Latin | 29% | Agenda, Circus, Amicable |
| Germanic (Old Norse) | 26% | Sky, Window, Knife |
| Greek | 6% | Philosophy, Democracy, Metaphor |
| Others (Arabic, Chinese, etc.) | 11% | Algebra, Tea, Panda |
With more than 170,000 words currently in the Oxford English Dictionary, that’s a lot of borrowed terms!
What Words Has English Borrowed From Other Languages?
Here’s a closer look at specific examples of borrowed words and their origins. You probably use many of these every day without even realizing they weren’t originally English.
- Arabic
- Algebra
- Alcohol
- Coffee
- French
- Bouquet
- Mirage
- Genre
- Spanish
- Siesta
- Ranch
- Guerrilla
- Japanese
- Karate
- Emoji
- Ramen
- Hindi
- Jungle
- Karma
- Pajamas
Each borrowed word comes with its unique history and reflects a moment of exchange between English speakers and other cultures.
Read More: Learn 100 Commonly Used English Idioms (And Their Meanings)
What Borrowed Words Mean for English Learners
Borrowed words make English a challenge to learn but also one of the most exciting languages. For English learners, recognizing loanwords can make the process easier—especially if your native language has contributed terms!
Key tips for learners:
- Start with borrowed words you recognize from your language.
- Learn about their origins to better understand the connections between cultures.
- Use these words confidently—after all, they symbolize the sharing of ideas across the world.
Final Thoughts
The next time you use words like “pizza,” “yoga,” or “genre,” take a moment to appreciate the history behind them.
Borrowed words remind us that language is a living, breathing thing that evolves just like we do. Whether through trade, conquests, or global connections, English has embraced words from countless cultures, growing stronger and richer as a result.
Understanding what words English has borrowed from other languages isn’t just fascinating—it also bridges the gap between past and present, uniting people across the globe through the power of communication.
Isn’t it amazing how a single language can carry so many stories within it? Now, go ahead and make these words your own. Happy learning!
