Words From India... What A Hullabaloo!

Did you know that a lot of words we use in everyday life in the English language originated in India, including the word 'Hullabaloo'? You might be surprised at just how many words you recognise. The words vary from clothes (pyjamas, bandana, pashmina) to food (chutney, char, curry) to modes of transport (catamaran, dinghy, juggernaut).

These words are listed in the Hobson-Jobson dictionary, first published 140 years ago in the days of The Raj, and is still in print today. Although called a dictionary it is more of an insight into the social history of colonial India under British Rule, and is quite eccentric in parts.

Read more about the words in the English language that come from India>>