induna

Where does the word "induna" come from? It comes from Zulu induna, and was adopted directly into English (1870s).

Induna’s story begins in Zulu: induna meant “headman, councillor under a chief.” Formed from the noun prefix in- plus duna, 'captain, councillor'. It reached English by 1870s as induna. Entered English through 19th-century contact with Zulu society in South Africa. Today, induna means a Black African headman, foreman, or minor official, especially in southern Africa.

1. Stage 1 · Zulu · 1800s induna "headman, councillor under a chief", formed from the noun prefix in- plus duna, 'captain, councillor'.
2. Stage 2 · English · 1870s induna "a Zulu headman, officer, or foreman", entered English through 19th-century contact with Zulu society in South Africa.