Bwana is a word that has been used in various contexts and cultures throughout history. It is a term that has been used in Africa, especially in East Africa, to refer to a person of authority or a master. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of bwana, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and example sentences.
Definitions
Bwana is a Swahili word that is used to refer to a person of authority or a master. It is a term that has been used in East Africa, especially in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, to refer to a boss, a landlord, or a wealthy person. In some contexts, it has also been used to refer to a foreigner or a white person.
Origin
The word bwana is derived from the Arabic word “bey,” which means “lord” or “master.” It was introduced to East Africa by Arab traders who traveled along the coast of East Africa in the 8th century. The word was adopted by the Swahili people, who used it to refer to their leaders or masters.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bwana is defined as a white person in East Africa, especially one who is a colonial official or plantation owner. In the Oxford English dictionary, it is defined as a term of respect or address used in East Africa, especially for a European or a person in authority.
Associations
Bwana is associated with power, wealth, and authority. It is a term that has been used to refer to landlords, bosses, and wealthy individuals. It is also associated with colonialism and the exploitation of African resources by Europeans.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of bwana include boss, master, landlord, owner, and proprietor.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of bwana include servant, employee, tenant, and subordinate.
The same root words
The word bwana has the same root words as the Arabic word “bey,” which means “lord” or “master.”
Example Sentences
- The bwana of the plantation was a wealthy man who owned thousands of acres of land.
- The workers on the farm called their boss bwana out of respect.
- The bwana of the village was the leader who made all the important decisions.
- The white settlers in Kenya were referred to as bwana by the local people.
- The landlord was known as bwana to his tenants.