As I mentioned in my first post in this ongoing series, like most other languages, English contains words that are directly taken from other languages. Sometimes words that come from one language are used in a new language without much or any change are called “loanwords.” A loanword can also be called “a borrowing.” The verbs “loan” and “borrow” are of course metaphors, as there is no actual lending process happening, but it is nicer to say words are loaned or borrowed, than it is to say the words are “stolen.” In the case of foreign words entering the English language, there certainly is a transfer process from one language to another going on. But there often is no “returning” of words to the source language, we in English often just keep the words and use then how we like, sometimes changing the meaning. Loanwords simply come to be used and incorporated into the general vocabulary. In general the initial borrowing of words between languages happens because of cultural contact between the two language communities, but sometimes, later on, people don’t even remember that the word came from different language to begin with.
Here are ten more common foreign words you will hear in English along with their language of origin, definition, and an example of usage.
ad hoc (Latin) – This term means improvised or provisional.
For example: At work we create ad hoc committees to solve different problems, as needed.
delicatessen (German) – In English the term is almost exclusively used to describe shops that sell food stuffs such as ready-to-eat food, often cold meats, cheeses, and salads. The word is also often shortened to “deli.”
For example: Can you pick me up a pound of lunch meat at the deli?
confetti (Italian) – Small pieces of colored paper thrown during a celebration, such as a wedding. It is an America tradition to throw confetti at weddings. This tradition is related to the older tradition of throwing rice, dates, or nuts at brides and grooms at the end of their wedding. This was done to bring good luck. It represents fertility and abundance.
For example: After the party I had confetti in my hair.
glitch (Yiddish and German) – An unexpected setback in a plan or a sudden, usually temporary malfunction or irregularity of equipment.
For example: Their was a glitch in our plan to drive across country, and in the end we had to call the whole trip off.
karaoke (Japanese) – A form of entertainment, often found at bars, in which people take turns singing popular songs into a microphone to prerecorded background tracks.
For example: Who wants to go sing karaoke with me tonight? I know a great bar we can go to.
ketchup (Malay) – Originally from the word “kichap.” This is an American condiment that is famous around the world. This is a sauce made primarily from tomatoes and vinegar.
For example: Please pass the ketchup, I like it on my fries.
kudos (Greek) – A word used to praise or honor someone for their achievement.
For example: Kudos on your new job! When do you start?
protege (French) – This is a person who receives support and mentorship (sometimes from an influential patron) to help further the protege’s career or work.
For example: Michale is my new protege; he is here to learn everything I know.
pajamas (Persian) – Originally from the word “paijama.” These are loose clothing (sometimes pants and a shirt) worn for sleeping. This word is also often shortened to “pj’s.”
For example: I told the children to put on their pajamas and brush their teeth, then I’ll read them a bedtime story.
wanderlust (German) – A strong desire to travel.
For example: Mary is a woman consumed by wanderlust. I doubt she’ll ever settle down.