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Urdu Words Used in English! This lesson looks at how English has taken words from Urdu over time. Loanwords are borrowed words that have become part of the English language. They include words like “avatar,” “bungalow,” and “chai,” which you may use without realizing they have Urdu origins. Understanding the rich cultural interaction between languages and appreciating the global nature of English can be aided by learning these words.
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Urdu Words List That We Use in English
- Avatar
- Bungalow
- Cheetah
- Chai (Tea)
- Doolally
- Imam
- Jungle
- Khaki
- Loot
- Nirvana
- Pajamas
- Punch (as in fruit punch)
- Pundit
- Shampoo
- Thug
- Veranda
- Shawl
- Paisley
- Cushy
- Typhoon
- Purdah
- Hindi
- Pariah
- Juggernaut
- Pukka
- Karma
- Sari
- Chutney
- Betel
- Guru
- Hookah
- Sherbet
- Diwan
- Chaiwala (Tea seller)
- Chapati
- Ghee
- Shish Kebab
- Pan (as in betel leaf)
- Poori (fried bread)
- Tandoori
- Chana
- Halwa
- Kofta
- Mirch
- Pakora
- Raita
- Samosa
- Paratha
- Papadum
- Keema
- Biryani
- Roti
- Garam masala
- Dal
- Aloo
- Bhindi
- Gulab Jamun
- Lassi
- Chai Latte
- Mango
- Curry
- Naan
- Chapati
- Pulao
- Tikka
- Paneer
- Kebab
- Jalebi
- Pav (Bread)
- Bhaji (Vegetable dish)
- Paprika
- Bombay Duck
- Sindoor (Vermilion)
- Kundan (Jewelry)
- Diwan (Council)
- Churidar
- Lungi
- Salwar
- Bindi
- Kohl
- Holi
- Chaiwallah (Tea seller)
- Chaiwala (Tea seller)
- Dhobi (Laundry worker)
- Ghazal
- Qawwali
- Tazia (Religious procession)
- Mehndi (Henna)
- Sarangi (Musical instrument)
- Talaq (Divorce)
Urdu Words That are Used in English With Meanings
- Avatar: An embodiment or representation of a person or entity, often in digital or symbolic form.
- Bungalow: A single-story house with a wide veranda, typically in a tropical or suburban setting.
- Cheetah: A large, fast-running wild cat known for its speed and spotted coat.
- Chai: A type of tea, typically prepared with black tea leaves, milk, and spices.
- Doolally: A slang term meaning insane or crazy.
- Imam: A religious leader in Islam who leads prayers and serves as a spiritual guide.
- Jungle: A dense and wild forest or wilderness area.
- Khaki: A type of durable, light brownish-yellow fabric used for military uniforms.
- Loot: Stolen goods or money, often obtained by robbery or plunder.
- Nirvana: A state of perfect happiness, liberation, or enlightenment in Buddhism.
- Pajamas: Loose-fitting trousers, typically worn for sleep.
- Punch: A beverage made from fruit juices and other ingredients, often served at parties.
- Pundit: An expert or authority in a particular field, often used by scholars.
- Shampoo: A cleansing liquid used for washing hair.
- Thug: A violent criminal or member of a criminal gang.
- Veranda: A roofed platform typically attached to the side of a building, often used for relaxation.
- Shawl: A large piece of fabric worn as a wrap, often draped over the shoulders.
- Paisley: A distinctive intricate pattern with a curved teardrop shape.
- Cushy: Comfortable, easy, or luxurious.
- Typhoon: A tropical storm or hurricane, particularly in the western Pacific Ocean.