Explore the surprising Hindi origins of everyday English words!
Originating from 'chāmpo', a term for massaging or kneading, this word entered English in the early 1760s.
Derived from 'jangal', meaning a wild, uncultivated land, this word has been part of English since the 18th century.
Comes from 'thag', which refers to a cheat or a swindler, entering English in the 19th century during British rule in India.
From 'bangla', meaning a house in the Bengal style, this architectural term has been in English since the late 17th century.
Adopted from 'varanda', a word for a covered porch or platform, commonly used in Indian architecture.
Taken from 'pai jamahs', which refers to leg clothing, this word became a part of English sleepwear vocabulary in the 19th century.
Derived from 'khaat', a word for a lightweight, portable bed, widely used in various forms across India.
From 'Jagannath', a title of Krishna whose massive temple chariots inspired the metaphor for an unstoppable force.
Originating from 'Kashmir', the region famous for producing fine, soft wool and woolen garments.
Taken from 'lut', meaning to plunder or steal, this word reflects the darker interactions during the colonial period.