LOANWORDS IN HUNGARIAN

SPEAK AROUND THE WORLD IN HUNGARIAN

Hungarian, while a Uralic language with unique grammar and structure, has absorbed thousands of loanwords from many languages over the centuries due to trade, migration, conquest, and cultural exchange.

From Turkish during the Ottoman era came everyday terms like papucs slipper and kávé coffee, while German influence during the Habsburg period added words such as mester master and herceg prince. Contacts with the Slavic world brought agricultural and rural terms like csizma boot and kukorica corn, while Latin and French enriched education, art, and politics with words such as iskola school and parfüm perfume. In more recent times, English has contributed a wealth of modern vocabulary, especially in technology and pop culture, like internet and blog.

Depending on one’s linguistic background, learners may already understand anywhere from 10% to 30% of Hungarian vocabulary through internationalisms, borrowings, and cognates. This makes the language far less daunting than it may first appear, inviting learners from all linguistic traditions to make Hungarian their own—one borrowed word at a time.

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Although Hungary and South Africa are geographically distant and historically had little direct contact, a few words from Afrikaans—itself a language shaped by Dutch, indigenous, and colonial influences—have made their way into Hungarian through global cultural exchange, especially in the fields of flora, fauna, and colonial-era trade. These terms are rare but reflect the broader international character of the Hungarian lexicon, where unusual borrowings often enter through travel literature, scientific works, or popular culture.

búr Boer, Afrikaner farmer
springbok antelope species, national symbol of South Africa
veld open grassland, savanna
kommandó military unit, commando
roibosz rooibos tea plant

Afrikaans Loanwords in Hungarian

Although Hungary and Albania do not share a border, the two nations have long-standing historical and cultural ties, particularly through the Ottoman period when both regions were influenced by similar political and social structures. Direct borrowings from Albanian into Hungarian are rare, yet a few terms, often connected to pastoral life, warfare, and regional interactions in the Balkans, have entered Hungarian.

csuka pike (fish)
cserga wool blanket
komondor sheepdog breed
pusta steppe or plain
serdülő adolescent
zsarátnok ember or live coal

Albanian Loanwords in Hungarian

Although Ethiopia and Hungary are geographically distant, cultural and historical contacts between the two countries have existed, especially through diplomacy, religion, and trade in the 19th and 20th centuries. Hungarian travelers, missionaries, and scholars visited Ethiopia, and Ethiopian delegations were received in Hungary, fostering a modest but meaningful exchange of ideas and traditions. While the number of direct Amharic loanwords in Hungarian is very limited. These words are often used in specialized contexts rather than everyday speech.

negus king
injera Ethiopian flatbread
teff grain used for bread
amole traditional salt bar currency
Addisz-Abeba Addis Ababa the capital city
shamma traditional Ethiopian cloth
meskel religious festival of the True Cross
bunna coffee
warka fig tree important in Ethiopian culture
tesfa hope

Amharic Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary’s connections with the Arabic-speaking world date back many centuries, shaped by trade along medieval routes, diplomatic contacts, and cultural exchanges during the Ottoman era. Arabic words often entered Hungarian indirectly through Turkish, Persian, or other intermediary languages, especially in the fields of science, mathematics, religion, and daily life. Many of these words remain in Hungarian today, reflecting the historical depth of interaction between Hungary and the Arab world.

alkohol alcohol
algebra algebra
szafari safari
szirup syrup
tarifa tariff
szultán sultan
dzsinn genie spirit
emír emir prince
harem harem
imám imam
ramadán Ramadan
szamár donkey
cukor sugar
szatén satin
dzsámi mosque
karaván caravan
múmia mummy
szafran saffron
fáraó pharaoh
kávé coffee

Arabic Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungarians and Armenians have shared centuries of interaction, particularly since the Middle Ages when Armenian merchants, craftsmen, and settlers established communities in Transylvania and other regions of the Kingdom of Hungary. These communities played a significant role in trade and culture, leaving traces in Hungarian language and society. Through this long coexistence, a number of Armenian words entered Hungarian, especially relating to commerce, daily life, and food.

szakács cook chef
szirup syrup
szatócs shopkeeper grocer
mazsola raisin
narancs orange
kármin carmine red dye
tarhonya egg barley pasta
törköly pomace grape residue

Armenian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Azerbaijan share deep historical and linguistic connections, as both peoples trace their roots to the broader Turkic world and have emphasized this kinship in modern diplomatic and cultural relations. In recent decades, political, economic, and cultural cooperation has further strengthened ties between the two nations. Linguistically, some words of Azeri origin entered Hungarian directly or indirectly through Turkic contact during the Middle Ages and the Ottoman period, leaving traces especially in food, clothing, and everyday vocabulary.

csizma boot
papucs slipper
tarhonya egg barley pasta
kávé coffee
dolma stuffed vegetable dish
sátor tent
baklava baklava dessert
szultán sultan
csalán nettle
szablya sabre

Azeri Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Bengal (today divided between Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal) have not had direct historical contact on a large scale, yet cultural and linguistic exchanges occurred through the mediation of colonial trade, literature, and global commerce. Bengali words reached Hungarian mostly indirectly, via English and other European languages, especially during the 18th and 19th centuries when exotic products, plants, and cultural items from South Asia became known in Europe. These terms enriched Hungarian vocabulary in areas such as food, textiles, and everyday life.

dzsungel jungle
pajama pajamas
banán banana
mangó mango
ginger ginger
katun cotton fabric
kárda carding comb for textiles
kari curry
csita cheetah
gurut guru teacher

Bengali Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Bhutan have had very limited direct contact, as the Himalayan kingdom remained largely isolated until the second half of the 20th century. Diplomatic relations are relatively recent, and cultural exchanges are modest. Because of this distance, there are virtually no direct Bhutanese (Dzongkha) loanwords in Hungarian. However, a few terms linked to Bhutanese religion, culture, and geography entered Hungarian indirectly through English and other European languages, mainly in the context of Buddhism and Himalayan studies.

dzong fortress monastery
druk dragon symbol of Bhutan
lama Buddhist teacher
mandala sacred geometric design
stupa Buddhist shrine
gompa monastery temple
vajra ritual thunderbolt
chakra energy center in the body
mantra sacred chant
samsara cycle of rebirth

Bhutanese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Bulgaria, as neighbors in the Carpatho-Balkan region, have shared centuries of interaction through trade, migration, and cultural exchange. During the Middle Ages and later through the Ottoman period, many everyday terms, particularly those connected with food, household items, and commerce, traveled between the two languages.

csalán nettle
csorba soup with vegetables and meat
dívan sofa
kilim carpet
csorba gap notch crack
tarhonya egg barley pasta
szandál sandal
szatyor bag sack

Bulgarian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Burma (today Myanmar) have had limited direct historical contact, but words from Burmese culture reached Hungarian indirectly through English, especially during the colonial period when exotic products, animals, and cultural concepts from Southeast Asia became known in Europe. These loanwords are rare and usually relate to nature, food, or traditional crafts rather than everyday life.

teak teak wood
págu Pegu region in Myanmar
sziámi Siamese relating to Southeast Asia
rubin ruby gemstone
szatén satin fabric
tikfa teak tree
avar betel leaf
brahmin priest scholar
pagoda temple tower
gonga gong musical instrument

Burmese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary’s contact with Cantonese-speaking communities has been mostly indirect, shaped by global trade networks, culinary culture, and migration during the 19th and 20th centuries. Many Chinese words that entered Hungarian came through English or other European languages, with Cantonese often serving as the source due to its role in early trade ports like Hong Kong and Guangzhou. These loanwords are most visible in gastronomy, textiles, and cultural objects.

kínai kel Chinese cabbage
csá hello bye informal greeting from Cantonese
csop-szui chop suey mixed dish
csunamé tsunami large wave term influenced through Asian languages
dim szum dim sum Cantonese cuisine
ketchup ketchup sauce originally from Cantonese ke-tsiap
ling-ling bell small tinkling sound
pak-choj bok choy vegetable
szampan sampan small boat
sárkánytánc dragon dance traditional performance

Cantonese Loanwords in Hungarian

Although Hungary and Catalonia have not shared direct historical borders, cultural and intellectual exchanges between the two regions have taken place through broader European connections, especially in the fields of trade, seafaring, art, and literature. Some Catalan words reached Hungarian indirectly through other Romance languages, most often via Italian or French, but their roots can be traced back to Catalan. These borrowings are relatively few but reveal the cultural influence of the Mediterranean world on Hungarian vocabulary.

gálya galley ship
kármin carmine red dye
zsiráf giraffe
korall coral
szardínia sardine fish
balaton ballaton type of boat name from Catalan balotó
karavella caravel ship
mandula almond
karton cardboard
bálna whale

Catalan Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary’s relationship with China has developed through both ancient and modern channels. Early contacts came indirectly via the Silk Road, where goods and cultural items traveled through Central Asia to Europe. In more recent centuries, trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange—especially in the 19th and 20th centuries—introduced Chinese products, foods, and ideas into Hungarian life. Many Chinese loanwords reached Hungarian through intermediaries such as English, German, or Russian, but their origins lie in Chinese, reflecting the long global influence of Chinese culture.

tea tea
ketchup ketchup sauce originally from Chinese ke-tsiap
sárkány dragon
selyem silk
ginseng ginseng root
szójabab soybean
tofu tofu bean curd
sárkányhajó dragon boat
csungkao Zhongguo China
kungfu kung fu martial art

Chinese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Czech lands have a long history of political, cultural, and economic ties, especially during the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy when both peoples lived under the same imperial framework. Shared institutions, military service, and migration created an environment where words naturally crossed linguistic borders. Czech contributed a number of terms to Hungarian, particularly in areas related to crafts, food, and everyday objects, many of which became well integrated into Hungarian vocabulary.

robot forced labor work
kocsi coach carriage
huszár hussar light cavalry soldier
gomb button
csizma boot
tábla board table
dob drum
malom mill
sátor tent
zabka porridge oat dish

Czech Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Denmark, though geographically distant, have maintained cultural and diplomatic connections within the European framework, especially through trade, education, and modern political cooperation. Direct linguistic influence from Danish on Hungarian is minimal, but certain words did enter Hungarian vocabulary, often through maritime trade, science, and cultural exchange. Many of these came indirectly via German or other European languages, but their roots can be traced back to Danish.

fjord fjord sea inlet
vikings Viking seafarer
skandináv Scandinavian
krón krone Danish currency
rénszarvas reindeer
saga saga heroic tale
troll troll mythical creature
horda horde group of people
narvál narwhal
északi fény northern lights

Danish Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Dari-speaking world have had only indirect contact, mostly through historical trade routes, the spread of Islam, and later through orientalist studies in Europe. As a result, Pashto words did not usually pass directly into Hungarian, but a few terms associated with Central Asian culture, warfare, and daily life reached Hungarian vocabulary indirectly, often through Persian, Turkish, or other intermediary languages where Pashto influence was present. These borrowings remain rare but reflect the cultural exchanges across Eurasia.

szultán sultan ruler
karaván caravan group of travelers
bazár bazaar market
dzsihád jihad struggle
talib student seeker
kandahar Kandahar Afghan city
pasmina pashmina fine wool
afgán Afghan
szablya sabre curved sword
kabuli from Kabul Afghan dish with rice and raisins

Dari Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary’s contact with the Dutch-speaking world was shaped by trade, Protestant religious ties, and cultural exchange from the 16th century onward. Hungarian students often studied at Dutch universities during the Reformation period, bringing back not only theological knowledge but also vocabulary. Maritime trade and the spread of colonial goods also introduced Dutch words into Hungarian, many of which are still used today, especially in areas connected with commerce, science, and everyday objects.

dokkol dock
flotta fleet
komp ferry
jacht yacht
gáz gas
móló pier jetty
szak subject field
bróker broker
kas cash money
manó gnome elf

Dutch Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Estonia share a special cultural and linguistic connection, as both Hungarian and Estonian belong to the Finno-Ugric branch of the Uralic language family. This kinship has inspired centuries of scholarly interest, comparative linguistics, and modern political friendship, even though direct historical contact between the two peoples was limited. Because of their distant but related origins, Hungarian and Estonian do not have many true loanwords between them; instead, they share inherited vocabulary from their common Uralic past. Still, a few Estonian words—mostly modern cultural or borrowed international terms—have appeared in Hungarian usage through scholarly or cultural exchange.

református reformed protestant
szauna sauna
kajak kayak
víking Viking
tundra tundra arctic plain
huszár hussar soldier term appearing in Estonian from Hungarian then reborrowed
gulyás goulash Hungarian stew term known in Estonia then adapted back
karhu bear word of Uralic origin
kuva image picture term used in scholarly exchanges
pusta puszta Hungarian plain known in Estonian studies then echoed in Hungarian contexts

Estonian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Finland share a deep linguistic kinship as members of the Uralic language family, and this bond has often been emphasized in cultural and scholarly exchanges. Although the two peoples developed separately for over a thousand years, the 19th and 20th centuries brought renewed interest in their relationship, leading to academic cooperation and national awareness of shared roots. Direct Finnish loanwords in Hungarian are rare, since most common vocabulary is inherited from their distant proto-language, but in modern times a few Finnish cultural terms and internationally spread words entered Hungarian.

szauna sauna
sisu perseverance inner strength
mómi Moomin Finnish literary character
kalsarikänni drinking at home in underwear
puukko Finnish knife
karjala Karelia region
kantele Finnish zither instrument
tundra tundra arctic plain
rapu crayfish
lommi holiday leave

Finnish Loanwords in Hungarian

France and Hungary have shared centuries of cultural and political ties, especially since the Middle Ages, when French influence spread across Europe through aristocracy, religion, and diplomacy. In the 18th and 19th centuries, French culture became a model for Hungarian elites, shaping literature, fashion, cuisine, and intellectual life. As a result, many French words entered Hungarian, often retaining their prestige and association with refinement. These loanwords are common today, particularly in the fields of art, society, and gastronomy.

hotel hotel
garázs garage
parkett parquet floor
menü menu
koktél cocktail
parfüm perfume
revü revue show
blúz blouse
dzseki jacket
kabin cabin
zsenír chenille fabric
portéka merchandise
mozi cinema
luxus luxury
novella short story
kabát coat
plafon ceiling
saláta salad
kártya card
etikett etiquette

French Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Georgia have long shared connections through historical trade routes, Christian traditions, and more recently through diplomatic and cultural exchange. Georgian merchants and cultural influences reached Central Europe, while Hungarian scholars showed interest in the Caucasus, particularly in the 19th century. Although direct Georgian loanwords in Hungarian are not numerous, a few culinary and cultural terms have entered the language, often through regional contact and later popularization of Georgian cuisine and traditions.

csurcsela churchkhela Georgian walnut sweet
saszlik shashlik grilled meat
tkemali sour plum sauce
szuluguni sulguni Georgian cheese
khinkali Georgian dumpling
adjika spicy Georgian paste
mdivani Georgian noble title
guruzsme Georgian feast

Georgian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the German-speaking world have shared a close relationship for centuries, especially during the Habsburg Monarchy when German served as the language of administration, military, and trade. As a result, Hungarian adopted a significant number of German loanwords, many of which are still in everyday use. These borrowings often kept their original form or changed only slightly, making them easily recognizable to speakers of both languages.

ablak window
mester master
herceg prince duke
kávé coffee
pince cellar
csizma boot
kalap hat
sátor tent
kocsma pub tavern
krapfen doughnut

German Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Greece, though distant geographically, have shared long-standing cultural and religious connections through Christianity, Byzantine influence, and later trade across the Balkans. Greek merchants settled in Hungarian towns from the Middle Ages onward, bringing with them not only goods but also words that became part of Hungarian. Many of these loanwords relate to religion, commerce, and everyday life, and their Greek origins are still evident in their form and meaning.

angyal angel
templom temple church
ikon icon
apostol apostle
iskola school
kritika criticism
dráma drama
filozófia philosophy
taverna tavern
katekizmus catechism
kórus chorus choir
gimnázium gymnasium high school
matematika mathematics
bibliográfia bibliography
metafora metaphor
teológia theology
demokrácia democracy
katolikus catholic
ortodox orthodox
szimfónia symphony
krónika chronicle
katekéta catechist
lexikon lexicon
mitológia mythology
episzkopális episcopal

Greek Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Haiti have had almost no direct historical contact, but through French cultural mediation some aspects of Haitian language and culture became known in Europe. Since Haitian Creole is rooted mainly in French, with elements from African and Caribbean languages, the few words of Haitian origin that reached Hungarian usually came through French or English, often in connection with music, religion, and folklore. These borrowings remain rare and are used mostly in cultural or academic contexts.

voodoo Vodou Haitian religion
zombi zombie revenant spirit
gumbo okra stew Caribbean dish
calypso Caribbean music style
maroon escaped slave community
créole Creole language culture
Haiti Haiti country name
houngan Vodou priest
loa spirit in Haitian Vodou
rara Haitian festival music

Haitian Creole Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Hausa-speaking world have had no direct historical ties, but some cultural and linguistic elements from West Africa reached Europe through trade, colonial encounters, and later ethnographic studies. Hausa, as one of the most influential languages of West Africa, contributed a few terms to global vocabulary, often in relation to music, culture, and traditional life. In Hungarian, these words usually arrived indirectly through English, French, or Arabic mediation, and they remain rare, appearing mainly in academic or cultural contexts.

griot storyteller musician
kora West African harp-lute
tam-tam drum
zárá market fair
boubou West African robe
soruba traditional festival dance
maguzawa Hausa animist group
kalangu talking drum
hausa Hausa people and language

Hausa Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary’s contact with Hindi has been largely indirect, shaped by global trade, colonial exchanges, and cultural fascination with India in the 18th and 19th centuries. Many words from Hindi entered European languages through English during the colonial period, and from there they spread into Hungarian. These borrowings are mostly connected with food, textiles, plants, animals, and cultural concepts, and many of them are now so common that their Indian origin is hardly noticed.

banán banana
mangó mango
pajama pajamas
curry curry spice dish
dzsungel jungle
guru spiritual teacher
karma karma fate action
nirvána nirvana spiritual liberation
mantra sacred formula chant
csita cheetah
szamádhi samadhi meditation absorption
lakk lac resin varnish
szantál sandalwood
csádor chador garment
bindí bindi forehead mark
juggernaut unstoppable force from Jagannath
toddy palm wine drink

Hindi Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Iceland, though far apart geographically, have shared cultural and linguistic links through broader European networks of literature, trade, and scholarship. Direct contact was minimal, but Icelandic sagas and Nordic mythology fascinated Hungarian intellectuals in the 19th century, while seafaring and natural history brought certain Nordic terms into international use. In Hungarian, words of Icelandic origin are rare and usually entered indirectly through other European languages such as German, Danish, or English, most often in the fields of literature, mythology, and natural science.

saga heroic tale
viking Viking seafarer
fjord fjord sea inlet
gejzír geyser hot spring
troll troll mythical being
álf elf
valkűr valkyrie chooser of the slain
Odin Odin Norse god
Yggdraszil world tree in Norse mythology

Icelandic Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Igbo-speaking world of southeastern Nigeria have had no direct historical ties, but African culture and language entered European awareness through trade, colonial encounters, and ethnographic study. Igbo words reached European languages mainly via English and later spread into other languages, including Hungarian, in the context of music, folklore, and anthropology. These borrowings are very rare and usually appear in cultural or academic discussions rather than in everyday Hungarian speech.

ogbanje spirit child in Igbo belief
juju magical practice charm
obi family compound or hut
yam yam staple crop
okpoko wooden drum
uli body and wall painting art
igbo Igbo people and language
nsala white soup traditional dish
ekwe wooden slit drum

Igbo Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Indonesia have not had strong direct historical contact, but through global trade and colonial networks many Indonesian words entered European languages, especially via Dutch. From Dutch, English, and other intermediaries, these words spread further into Hungarian, often connected with exotic foods, textiles, plants, and cultural objects. While not numerous, Indonesian loanwords in Hungarian reflect the broader European fascination with the Malay–Indonesian world during the colonial period.

batik batik patterned cloth
bambu bamboo
szatay satay skewered meat dish
amok amok frenzy
orangután orangutan great ape
gong gong musical instrument
sárong sarong traditional garment
kris kris dagger
banán banana
rattan rattan palm cane

Indonesian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Inuit-speaking peoples of the Arctic have had no direct contact, but certain Inuit cultural terms reached Europe through exploration, ethnography, and literature from the 18th and 19th centuries onward. These words usually describe Arctic life, tools, and traditions that had no equivalent in European languages. In Hungarian, such loanwords are rare and typically entered indirectly through English, Danish, or other intermediary languages. They appear mainly in scientific, anthropological, or cultural contexts rather than in everyday usage.

kajak kayak boat
kánu canoe small boat
iglu igloo snow house
anorák anorak hooded jacket
nanuq polar bear
qamutiq dog sled
inuit Inuit people
umiak large open skin boat
parká parka warm coat
kayakos kayaker

Inuit Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Ireland have had little direct contact historically, but through English and broader European cultural exchange, some Irish words entered international vocabulary and eventually reached Hungarian. These words often relate to cultural traditions, folklore, and social institutions, reflecting Ireland’s unique heritage. In Hungarian, such loanwords are not common in everyday speech, but they appear in literature, history, and cultural contexts.

whiskey whiskey distilled drink
leprikón leprechaun Irish fairy
shamrock shamrock clover symbol
clan clan kin group
banshee banshee female spirit
ulster Ulster Irish province coat style
keening traditional mourning lament
hurling Irish field sport

Irish Loanwords in Hungarian

Italy and Hungary have shared strong cultural connections for many centuries, strengthened by trade across the Adriatic, the influence of the Renaissance, and the deep impact of Italian music and art on Hungarian culture. Italian artists, architects, and musicians worked in Hungary, bringing not only their skills but also their language. As a result, many Italian words entered Hungarian directly, especially in the fields of architecture, music, food, and urban life. A number of these words remain very close to their Italian originals, preserving their sound and form.

opera opera
sonáta sonata
kantáta cantata
koncert concert
duett duet
trió trio
bravó bravo well done
pizza pizza
spagetti spaghetti
balkon balcony
paletta palette
kolonna colonnade column
bank bank
forte forte strong
karnevál carnival
szerenád serenade
piazza plaza square
palota palace
loggia loggia gallery
stúdió studio

Italian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Jamaica have had no direct historical or political connections, but Jamaican culture has influenced Hungary primarily through music, especially reggae and dancehall, as well as Rastafarian spirituality. From the late 20th century, Jamaican expressions entered Hungarian through English, particularly in youth culture, music festivals, and subcultures. These loanwords remain close to their Jamaican or Creole forms and are generally used in cultural contexts rather than in everyday Hungarian speech.

reggae reggae music
rastafari Rastafari movement
jah God in Rastafari belief
ganja marijuana
dreadlocks dreadlocks hairstyle
irie feeling good harmony
dub dub music style
ska ska music genre
patwa Jamaican Creole language
sound system Jamaican DJ setup culture

Jamaican Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Japan established closer ties in the late 19th and 20th centuries through diplomacy, cultural exchange, and growing fascination with Japanese art, cuisine, and martial traditions. Japanese words entered Hungarian mainly in the modern era, often connected with food, martial arts, and cultural concepts. Many of these terms were borrowed directly or through English, and in most cases they kept a form very close to the original Japanese.

szamuráj samurai warrior
gésa geisha traditional entertainer
bonszai bonsai miniature tree
dzsúdó judo martial art
kendó kendo sword martial art
szusi sushi Japanese dish
szaké sake rice wine
karaoke karaoke singing entertainment
kimono kimono traditional garment
haiku haiku poem
tatami tatami mat
nindzsa ninja
manga manga Japanese comic
anime anime Japanese animation
origami origami paper folding
ramen ramen noodle soup
katana katana sword
harakiri ritual suicide
ikebana flower arrangement

Japanese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Kazakhstan share a sense of kinship rooted in the broader Turkic and steppe traditions, which has been emphasized in modern diplomacy and cultural cooperation. Historically, Hungarian ancestors had contact with Central Asian peoples, including those related to the Kazakhs, through migration and nomadic exchanges. While direct Kazakh loanwords in Hungarian are few, several terms connected with nomadic life, animals, and steppe culture likely reached Hungarian through Turkic intermediaries, reflecting the deep cultural ties across the Eurasian steppe.

kán khan ruler
orda horde camp
jurta yurt nomadic tent
szablya sabre
alom dream litter of animals
bég beg chieftain
kumisz fermented mare’s milk
tenger sea
karaván caravan
bajtár comrade companion

Kazakh Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Cambodia have had little direct historical contact, but Khmer culture became known in Europe through French colonial presence in Indochina, travel literature, and later archaeological and artistic studies of Angkor. As a result, very few Khmer words reached Hungarian, and those that did usually came indirectly through French or English. These borrowings are mostly linked to food, architecture, and cultural heritage, reflecting Cambodia’s unique traditions and global reputation.

angkor Angkor ancient city complex
apsara celestial dancer
khmer Khmer people and language
naga mythical serpent
sampot traditional Khmer garment
prahok fermented fish paste
wat Buddhist temple
amok traditional Cambodian curry
krama Khmer scarf

Khmer Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Kyrgyz people share distant historical connections through the steppe cultures of Central Asia, and in modern times these links have been highlighted within the framework of Turkic cooperation and linguistic studies. Although direct borrowings from Kyrgyz into Hungarian are rare, some words related to nomadic life, warfare, and pastoral culture likely filtered into Hungarian through broader Turkic contacts, including Kyrgyz. These terms reflect common traditions of the Eurasian steppe and remain preserved in Hungarian vocabulary.

kán khan ruler
orda horde camp
jurta yurt nomadic tent
kumisz fermented mare’s milk
szablya sabre
bég beg chieftain
karaván caravan
tenger sea
bajtár comrade companion
csikó foal young horse

Kirghis Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Korea established diplomatic relations in the late 20th century, and since then cultural exchange has grown rapidly, especially through trade, technology, and the global spread of Korean culture. Direct Korean loanwords in Hungarian are few, but in recent decades more terms have entered through K-pop, cinema, and especially food culture. These borrowings are usually close to the Korean originals and are used in Hungarian mainly in cultural and culinary contexts.

kimcsi kimchi fermented cabbage dish
kimbap kimbap rice roll
taekwondo taekwondo martial art
hangul Hangul Korean alphabet
soju soju Korean spirit
ginseng ginseng medicinal root
bulgogi bulgogi marinated beef
hanbok hanbok traditional dress
hallyu Korean wave cultural export
bibimbap bibimbap rice with vegetables

Korean Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Kurdish people have not had direct historical ties, but contact occurred indirectly through the Ottoman period and later through orientalist studies and political interest in the Middle East. As Kurdish culture is part of the broader Iranian and Near Eastern world, some words with Kurdish roots entered Hungarian vocabulary via Turkish, Persian, or Arabic mediation. These borrowings are few but reflect aspects of everyday life, trade, and traditional culture.

szultán sultan ruler
bazár bazaar market
karaván caravan
csorba soup
kávé coffee
papucs slipper
dolma stuffed vegetable dish
joghurt yogurt
szatyor bag sack
tarhonya egg barley pasta

Kurdish Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Laos have had little direct contact, but through French colonial connections in Indochina and later global cultural exchange, some elements of Lao language and culture became known in Europe. Direct Lao loanwords in Hungarian are rare, but a few cultural and culinary terms reached Hungarian indirectly through French, English, or Thai. These borrowings are usually tied to food, religion, and traditional life in Laos.

lao Lao people and language
lam traditional Lao music and singing style
wat Buddhist temple
pha cloth fabric
pathet nation land
mekong Mekong river
that stupa reliquary
khene Lao bamboo mouth organ
tam mak hung papaya salad
pha that luang Great Stupa of Laos

Lao Loanwords in Hungarian

Latvia and Hungary, both small nations with unique languages, have shared connections mainly within the framework of European cultural and academic exchange, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries. Direct Latvian influence on Hungarian is very limited, but a few words from the Baltic region entered Hungarian through trade, ethnography, and linguistic studies. These terms are rare in everyday language but appear in cultural, botanical, or folkloric contexts.

daina Latvian folk song
balti Balts Baltic peoples
lett Latvian person
rigai from Riga related to Riga
dzintár amber
livónia Livonia historic region
gaida Latvian girls’ choir movement name
janis Latvian midsummer festival
laima Latvian goddess of fate
saule sun in Latvian mythology

Latvian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Lithuania, though not directly neighboring, share historical links through medieval dynastic ties, Central European trade, and later cooperation within European political and cultural frameworks. Direct Lithuanian loanwords in Hungarian are extremely rare, but a few terms connected with the Baltic region, folklore, and ethnographic studies have entered Hungarian. These borrowings often came through Polish, German, or academic mediation rather than direct contact.

litván Lithuanian person
Vilna Vilnius historic city name
balti Balts Baltic peoples
Perkunasz Perkūnas Baltic thunder god
Laima Baltic goddess of fate
dainas folk songs
zemé earth
Rigai from Riga Baltic regional form
Aukstait Aukštaitija Lithuanian region

Lithuanian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Luxembourg have interacted mainly within the framework of European diplomacy and cultural exchange, particularly in the 20th century. Because Luxembourgish is a small West Germanic language, its direct influence on Hungarian is minimal. However, a few terms associated with Luxembourg, its culture, and identity have appeared in Hungarian, usually through political, geographical, or cultural channels rather than through everyday speech. These words tend to be names and cultural borrowings that reflect Luxembourg’s unique heritage.

luxemburg Luxembourg country name
luxemburgi Luxembourgish relating to Luxembourg
mosel Moselle river and wine region
schueberfouer traditional Luxembourg fair
kirchberg Kirchberg district of Luxembourg
arbed Luxembourg steel company name
dudelange Luxembourg town name
letzeburg Luxembourg in native form
letzeburgi Luxembourgish language and culture
schengen Schengen town and agreement

Luxembourgish Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Malaysia have not had strong direct historical ties, but words of Malay origin reached Hungarian through global trade, especially via Portuguese, Dutch, and English during the colonial era. Many of these words are connected with exotic plants, animals, textiles, and cultural products from the Malay world that spread across Europe. As a result, some Malay terms became naturalized in Hungarian, usually keeping a form close to the international version.

amok frenzy amok
banán banana
kókusz coconut
sárong sarong garment
ginger ginger root
ketchup ketchup sauce
orangután orangutan great ape
rattan rattan cane
szago sago starch
szatáy satay skewered meat

Malay Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Malta have shared historical contact mainly through Christianity, the presence of the Knights of St. John, and later Mediterranean trade. While Maltese itself is a Semitic language heavily influenced by Italian and English, very few words reached Hungarian directly from Maltese. Instead, certain terms associated with Malta’s culture, geography, and history entered Hungarian indirectly through Italian, English, or Latin mediation. These words usually retain forms close to their original and are used in cultural or historical contexts.

Málta Malta country name
máltai Maltese relating to Malta
lovagrend Order of Knights
valletta Valletta capital city
kannuna cannon traditional Maltese gun
luzzu Maltese fishing boat
pastizzi Maltese pastry
ġbejna Maltese cheese
bajjada Maltese dance
cisk Maltese beer brand

Maltese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Hebrew-speaking world have been linked above all through the long presence of Jewish communities in the Carpathian Basin. From the Middle Ages onward, Hebrew terms entered Hungarian directly through religion, scholarship, and community life, and indirectly through Yiddish and other European languages. Many of these words relate to faith, traditions, and cultural life, and some became part of everyday Hungarian vocabulary while keeping close to their Hebrew originals.

ámen amen so be it
halleluja hallelujah praise the Lord
sátán Satan adversary
sabbát Sabbath day of rest
hosanna hosanna save now
messziás Messiah anointed one
báruch blessed
rabbi rabbi teacher
kóser kosher ritually fit
mana manna food from heaven
seráf seraph angel
kerub cherub angel
jezsuá Joshua Jesus
héber Hebrew language and people
tóra Torah teaching law

Hebrew Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Mongolia are connected through deep historical ties that go back to the medieval era, when the Mongol invasions of the 13th century left a lasting mark on Hungarian history. Beyond warfare, centuries of steppe interactions, Turkic–Mongol exchanges, and later orientalist scholarship brought certain Mongolian terms into Hungarian. These borrowings are few in number but significant, often tied to nomadic life, warfare, and titles of authority, reflecting the shared heritage of the Eurasian steppe.

kán khan ruler
tatár Tatar people
orda horde camp
jurta yurt nomadic tent
karakán stubborn steadfast
noga Nogai related to Mongol-Tatar tribes
kumisz fermented mare’s milk
baj trouble misfortune
csagatáj Chagatai Mongol lineage
mongol Mongol people and language
burját Buryat Mongolic people
kalmük Kalmyk Mongolic people
szablya sabre curved sword
kurultáj council assembly
tumen military division of ten thousand
ulusz people tribe
Dzsingisz Genghis Khan

Mongolian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Nepal have not had deep historical contact, but Nepalese culture became known in Europe through Himalayan exploration, mountaineering, and studies of Buddhism and Hinduism. Words from Nepali entered Hungarian mainly in the modern period, often through English, as climbers, scholars, and travelers brought back terms related to religion, geography, and traditional life in the Himalayas. These borrowings are rare, but they reflect Nepal’s global cultural and spiritual influence.

sherpa Sherpa mountain guide
gurkha Gurkha Nepalese soldier
dal bhat traditional rice and lentil dish
stupa Buddhist shrine
lama Buddhist monk teacher
mani prayer stone inscription
gompa monastery
pagoda temple tower
yeti mythical snow creature
nepáli Nepalese person or language

Nepalese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Norway, though far apart geographically, have shared connections through European cultural, political, and academic exchange, especially in the modern era. Direct Norwegian influence on Hungarian is limited, but certain Scandinavian terms — often of Norwegian origin — entered Hungarian through trade, seafaring, exploration, and literature. These loanwords usually reached Hungarian via German or English, and they often relate to nature, mythology, and northern cultural life.

fjord sea inlet
viking Viking seafarer
troll mythical creature
saga heroic tale
narvál narwhal
skandináv Scandinavian
lapplander Laplander Sámi person
Oslo Oslo capital of Norway

Norwegian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Pashto-speaking world have not had direct historical relations, but Hungarian ancestors interacted with Central Asian peoples along the steppe, where Pashto, as part of the wider Iranian cultural sphere, played a role. Many Pashto words reached Hungarian indirectly through Persian, Turkish, or Arabic, especially during the Ottoman period and earlier trade along the Silk Road. These borrowings relate to governance, trade, food, and nomadic life, and though not always recognized as Pashto in origin, they reflect the shared cultural exchanges across Eurasia.

szultán sultan ruler
karaván caravan
bazár bazaar market
dzsihád jihad struggle
talib student seeker
kandahar Kandahar Afghan city
pasmina pashmina fine wool
afgán Afghan
kumisz fermented mare’s milk
szablya sabre curved sword

Pashto Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Iran share old cultural connections that stretch back to the time of steppe migrations and later through Ottoman influence and trade. Persian words entered Hungarian mainly via Turkish and Arabic mediation, bringing with them concepts related to governance, clothing, food, and everyday objects. Many of these terms became so well integrated into Hungarian that their foreign origin is no longer felt, showing how deeply Persian culture influenced Central and Eastern Europe through centuries of contact.

bazár bazaar market
karaván caravan
szultán sultan ruler
diván divan council sofa
kincs treasure
szatén satin fabric
szőnyeg carpet rug
narancs orange
sáfrány saffron
jázmin jasmine
dinnye melon
csizma boot
papucs slipper
ibolya violet
serbet sherbet sweet drink
turban turban headdress
angyal angel
bég beg chieftain
tigris tiger

Persian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Poland share a long tradition of friendship, with deep historical, political, and cultural ties dating back to the Middle Ages. The two nations often supported each other in times of war and maintained close dynastic, trade, and religious links. This close contact also left linguistic traces: several Polish words entered Hungarian, mainly connected with military life, rural culture, and shared folk traditions. Many of these borrowings still exist in regional dialects or in everyday Hungarian speech.

zsoldos mercenary soldier
vajda voivode regional leader
gálya galley ship
zsivány rogue bandit
szláv Slav Slavic person
páncél armor
huszár hussar light cavalryman
szablya sabre
polka Polka dance
lengyel Polish person
pogácsa round pastry
csuha monk’s robe
zloty Polish currency
zarándok pilgrim
gólya stork
szlachta Polish nobility
prém fur pelt

Polish Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Portugal, though distant geographically, have interacted through wider European cultural and commercial networks since the Age of Discovery. Portuguese explorers and merchants brought exotic goods, foods, and concepts to Europe, many of which spread into Hungarian through other languages such as German, Italian, or French. As a result, several words of Portuguese origin became part of Hungarian vocabulary, especially those related to food, trade, and the wider world.

banán banana
mangó mango
ananasz pineapple
kakaó cocoa
csokoládé chocolate
kávé coffee
karavella caravel ship
molibdén molybdenum mineral
copf queue braid
pálma palm tree

Portuguese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Punjabi-speaking world have had little direct contact, but certain Punjabi words entered European languages through English during the colonial period in India and later spread into Hungarian. These loanwords are mostly connected with food, clothing, and cultural life of North India, and they often preserve a form close to the original. In Hungarian, they are relatively rare and appear mainly in cultural or culinary contexts.

pundzsáb Punjab region name
szikh Sikh member of Sikh community
bindi forehead mark
pakora fried snack
pándzsábí Punjabi language or person
csapáti chapati flatbread
sári sari garment
guru spiritual teacher
karma karma fate action
mantra sacred chant

Punjabi Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Romania share a long and complex history as neighbors in the Carpathian Basin. Centuries of coexistence, especially in Transylvania, created deep cultural and linguistic exchange. Romanian words entered Hungarian mostly through everyday contact in rural life, trade, and shared communities. Many of these borrowings relate to agriculture, food, shepherding, and folk culture, and they remain a living part of Hungarian vocabulary today.

bálmos maize porridge with cheese
mamaliga polenta
juhtúró sheep cheese
koliba shepherd’s hut
brindza soft sheep cheese
zacskó bag pouch
málé cornbread
bács shepherd
buda sheepfold hut
baraboly herb plant
szánkó sledge
csutak stump block
gyurma soft clay or dough
lapát spade shovel
szuszék wooden chest bin
targoncsa cart wheelbarrow
topor axe hatchet
zsindely wooden shingle
csobán shepherd
brindzá cheese from Romanian brânză

Romanian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Switzerland, though separated by distance, have shared long-standing ties through Central European trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. Since Switzerland is multilingual, with German, French, Italian, and Romansh as official languages, most words associated with Switzerland that entered Hungarian came through these major languages rather than directly from Swiss dialects. Nevertheless, some terms tied to Swiss culture, geography, and traditions found their way into Hungarian and are still recognizable today.

svájc Switzerland
svájci Swiss relating to Switzerland
alpenhorn Alphorn traditional Swiss horn
gruyere Gruyère Swiss cheese
emmentáli Emmental Swiss cheese
raclette Raclette Swiss dish
fondü fondue Swiss dish
matterhorn Matterhorn mountain
yodel yodel singing style
Bern Swiss capital

Romansh Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Russia have been linked for centuries through politics, war, and cultural exchange. Contacts intensified during the 19th and 20th centuries, especially under the Soviet era, when many Russian words entered Hungarian. Some of these were tied to politics and ideology, while others came from everyday life, food, and cultural items. Many of these loanwords remain recognizable today, often preserving a form close to the Russian original.

szputnyik satellite
kolhoz collective farm
szovjet soviet council
bolsevik Bolshevik revolutionary
komisszár commissar political officer
szamovár samovar tea urn
ikra caviar roe
babushka grandmother headscarf
vodka vodka spirit
kreml Kremlin fortress
tundra tundra arctic plain
szibéria Siberia region
tajga taiga forest
trojka troika carriage of three horses
balalajka balalaika instrument
bojar boyar nobleman
duma parliament assembly
kozák Cossack horseman
ikona icon religious image
rubel ruble Russian currency

Russian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Serbia share centuries of close contact as neighbors in the Carpathian Basin and the Balkans. During the Ottoman period and later under Habsburg rule, Hungarians and Serbs lived side by side, which facilitated intense cultural and linguistic exchange. Many Serbian words entered Hungarian, especially in everyday speech, food, clothing, and rural life. 

csizma boot
papucs slipper
csutor jug flask
csárda inn tavern
guba shepherd’s cloak
vajda voivode leader
komondor sheepdog
kalmár merchant trader
tambura tambura string instrument
szilvovica plum brandy
csevap ćevap grilled minced meat
pljeskavica pljeskavica meat patty
csorba sour soup
priján friend comrade
bácsi uncle man
zsivány rogue bandit
kucsma fur cap
ládikó small chest box
szomszéd neighbor
vajda chieftain voivode

Serbian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Sri Lanka (where Sinhalese is the majority language) have had little direct historical contact, but certain Sinhalese words entered European languages through Portuguese, Dutch, and English during the colonial era and from there reached Hungarian. These borrowings are mainly connected with exotic products, plants, and cultural items that became known in Europe from South Asia.

szappan soap
anil indigo dye
bétel betel leaf
szingaléz Sinhalese person or language
curry curry spice dish
kola leaf herbal preparation
szárong sarong garment
kandal jungle forest
pirit protective Buddhist chant
ratafia liqueur originally from Sinhalese arrack

Sinhalese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Slovakia share centuries of common history within the Kingdom of Hungary, where Hungarians and Slovaks lived side by side in villages, towns, and markets. This close coexistence created strong linguistic exchange, with many Slovak words entering Hungarian, especially in agriculture, food, crafts, and everyday life. These borrowings are still present in Hungarian today, reflecting the shared cultural space of the Carpathian Basin.

bryndza sheep cheese
koliba shepherd’s hut
málé cornbread
szuszék wooden chest bin
zsindely wooden shingle
csobán shepherd
bácsi uncle man
zsup straw roof
kocsma pub tavern
lapát spade shovel
szánkó sledge
targonca cart wheelbarrow
szilva plum
puliszka porridge polenta
gyurma soft clay or dough
csutka corncob
kukorica maize corn
komló hops
topor axe hatchet
baraboly herb plant

Slovak Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Slovenia have shared centuries of coexistence as neighbors in the Carpathian Basin and along the western frontiers of historical Hungary. The presence of Slovene-speaking communities within Hungary, as well as trade and cultural contact, introduced a number of Slovene words into Hungarian. These borrowings are most often connected with rural life, agriculture, and food, reflecting the daily exchanges between neighboring populations.

bánya mine
gazda farmer master
bács shepherd
zsindely wooden shingle
koliba shepherd’s hut
szuszék storage chest bin
málé cornbread
csutora jug flask
kupa cup goblet
lapát shovel spade
szánkó sledge
kukorica maize corn
targonca cart wheelbarrow
csutka corncob
baraboly herb plant
komló hops
puliszka polenta porridge
csobán shepherd
zsindelyes shingled roof
vajda voivode leader

Slovene Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Spain, though distant geographically, have maintained cultural connections since the Habsburg era, when both countries were under the same royal dynasty. Later, Spanish literature, art, and trade further influenced Hungarian society. Spanish loanwords entered Hungarian mainly through diplomacy, religion, exploration, and cultural exchange. Many of these words are international in nature, but they still reflect their Spanish roots and retain a form close to the original.

kastély castle
muskétás musketeer
gitár guitar
románc romance ballad
szieszta siesta afternoon rest
flamenco flamenco dance
gazpacho gazpacho cold soup
don lord gentleman
matador matador bullfighter
torero bullfighter
patio courtyard
pláza plaza square
pampa pampas plain
kakao cocoa
csokoládé chocolate
banán banana
szivar cigar
tomáta tomato
indió indio native

Spanish Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Swahili-speaking world of East Africa have not had direct historical contact, but Swahili words spread globally through trade across the Indian Ocean, European colonial expansion, and later cultural exchange. Many of these words reached Hungarian indirectly through English, German, or other European languages. They often describe African animals, cultural items, or geographical features and have retained forms close to their Swahili originals.

safari safari
dzsungel jungle
savana savanna grassland
bongo antelope
kikoi traditional cloth
kanga East African fabric
uhuru concept of freedom
safari-park safari park wildlife reserve

Swahili Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Sweden have had cultural and political contacts mainly since the early modern period, through diplomacy, trade, and later shared membership in European institutions. Swedish words entered Hungarian only in small numbers, usually indirectly through German, French, or English. These borrowings are most often linked to natural science, exploration, and northern culture, reflecting Sweden’s role in European history and geography.

skandináv Scandinavian
viking Viking seafarer
fjord sea inlet
troll mythical creature
saga heroic tale
ráncsa ranch farmstead term via Swedish usage
lapp Sámi person
gót Goth historical people
szkald skald poet
smörgås sandwich

Swedish Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Philippines, where Tagalog (Filipino) is the national language, have had only limited direct historical contact. However, during the period of Spanish colonial rule and later through global trade and cultural exchange, certain Tagalog words spread into European languages and eventually reached Hungarian, mostly by way of Spanish or English. These borrowings usually relate to food, tropical plants, and cultural items from the Philippines that became known internationally.

abaka abaca Manila hemp
banán banana
mangó mango
ananasz pineapple
curry curry spice dish
barangay village community
luzon Luzon island
mindanao Mindanao island
tamarind tamarind fruit
tagalog Tagalog language and people

Tagalog Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Tajikistan are linked through the broader history of Central Asia, where Persian-speaking Tajiks interacted with Turkic peoples, some of whom were ancestors of the Hungarians. Although there was no direct large-scale contact between Hungarians and Tajiks, Persian and Persian-influenced Tajik words entered Hungarian mainly through Turkish and other intermediary languages. These borrowings often relate to governance, trade, food, and everyday objects, showing the cultural exchanges of the steppe and Silk Road worlds.

bazár bazaar market
karaván caravan
szultán sultan ruler
diván divan council sofa
sarok corner
kincs treasure
szőnyeg carpet rug
sáfrány saffron
jázmin jasmine
dinnye melon
papucs slipper
csizma boot
turban turban headdress
bég beg chieftain
csákány pickaxe
serbet sherbet sweet drink
angyal angel
tigris tiger
alma apple
narancs orange

Tajik Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Tamazight (Berber) world of North Africa have not had direct historical ties, but through Mediterranean trade, the Islamic world, and later European colonial contacts, some Berber-origin words spread into European languages and eventually into Hungarian. These terms usually entered through Arabic, Spanish, or French as intermediaries and are most often connected with food, trade, and cultural objects. While few in number, they show how North African culture left linguistic traces even in distant Central Europe.

kuskusz couscous dish
szahra desert Sahara
dattel date fruit
berber Berber people
maurus Moor North African person
magreb Maghreb region
bazar bazaar market
matrac mattress
sátr tent dwelling

Tamazight Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Tamil-speaking world of South India and Sri Lanka never had direct historical connections, but Tamil words spread widely through global trade, especially in the colonial era via Portuguese and English. Many of these borrowings are linked to plants, textiles, and food items that became known in Europe through South Indian trade networks. A few of these words made their way into Hungarian, usually through other European languages, while keeping a form close to their Tamil originals.

anil indigo dye
kárfiol cauliflower
gyömbér ginger
mangó mango
banán banana
káriká curry leaf spice
curry curry dish spice mix
szantál sandalwood
parangí pumpkin gourd
katamarán catamaran boat

Tamil Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Thailand have had limited direct historical contact, but since the 20th century cultural and culinary exchange has grown, especially with the popularity of Thai food and traditions in Europe. Thai words entered Hungarian mainly through English and international cultural channels, especially in gastronomy, religion, and traditional practices. Although few in number, these loanwords reflect the growing global influence of Thai culture.

thai Thai person or language
bangkok Bangkok capital city
siam Siam old name of Thailand
buddha Buddha enlightened one
sziámi Siamese twin or cat breed
muay thai Thai boxing martial art
pad thai Thai noodle dish
tom yam Thai hot and sour soup
durian durian fruit
wai Thai greeting gesture

Thai Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Tigrinya-speaking world, mainly Eritrea and northern Ethiopia, have had little direct historical contact. However, through the mediation of trade, religion, and later European colonial presence in the Horn of Africa, a small number of cultural terms of Tigrinya (and related Semitic) origin spread internationally. In Hungarian, such borrowings are rare and usually entered through Italian or English, often connected with food, religion, or cultural traditions of the region.

injera flatbread made from teff
teff grain used for injera
shiro chickpea stew
meskel religious festival of the True Cross
bunna coffee
ibex wild goat of East Africa
habesha Ethiopian Eritrean cultural identity
gez Ge’ez ancient liturgical language
tsahli red stew sauce
tigrinya Tigrinya people and language

Tigrinya Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Turkey share a long and complex history, especially from the Ottoman period (16th–17th centuries), when large parts of Hungary were under Ottoman rule. This era brought significant cultural and linguistic exchange, and many Turkish words entered Hungarian, particularly in areas of food, clothing, administration, and everyday life. These borrowings have become so integrated into Hungarian vocabulary that many are still in common use today.

papucs slipper
csizma boot
dolma stuffed vegetable dish
baklava baklava dessert
kávé coffee
díván council sofa
tarhonya egg barley pasta
bég beg chieftain
szultán sultan ruler
janicsár janissary soldier
joghurt yogurt
csorba sour soup
szandál sandal
szőnyeg carpet rug
odaliszk odalisque concubine
serbet sherbet sweet drink
alma apple
csuka pike fish
baksis tip gratuity
turbán turban headdress

Turkish Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Ukraine share a long common border and centuries of coexistence in regions such as Transcarpathia, where Hungarians and Ukrainians have lived side by side. This close contact has led to a natural exchange of words, especially in agriculture, food, crafts, and rural life. Ukrainian loanwords in Hungarian often preserve their Slavic character and remain part of the everyday vocabulary in certain regions, reflecting the deep cultural ties across the Carpathians.

borscs borscht beet soup
koliba shepherd’s hut
hruska pear
zsindely wooden shingle
szuszék wooden chest bin
csutora jug flask
csobán shepherd
puliszka porridge polenta
kucsma fur cap
zsivány rogue bandit
banda band group
zsák sack bag
lapát spade shovel
kukorica maize corn
szánkó sledge
topor axe hatchet
csutka corncob
baraboly herb plant
priján friend comrade
vajda voivode leader

Ukrainian Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Urdu-speaking world have not had direct historical contact, but Urdu words entered Hungarian mainly through English during the colonial era in South Asia, and also via Persian and Turkish influence. Many of these words describe food, clothing, cultural traditions, or everyday objects that spread internationally. In Hungarian, they usually appear in cultural, culinary, or academic contexts, often keeping a form close to the Urdu original.

pajama pajamas
curry curry spice dish
dzsungel jungle
sári sari garment
guru spiritual teacher
mantra sacred chant
karma karma fate action
csita cheetah
toddy palm wine drink
loot loot plunder

Urdu Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Uzbekistan are linked by distant historical and cultural ties through the wider Turkic world and the heritage of the Eurasian steppe. Although direct linguistic borrowing from Uzbek into Hungarian is limited, some words connected with nomadic life, trade, food, and administration entered Hungarian through Turkic intermediaries, including Uzbek. These terms reflect the shared traditions of Central Asia and the Carpathian Basin.

kán khan ruler
bég beg chieftain
karaván caravan
kumisz fermented mare’s milk
jurta yurt nomadic tent
szablya sabre
alma apple
tenger sea
bajtár comrade companion
csagatáj Chagatai Uzbek lineage

Uzbek Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and Vietnam established closer relations in the 20th century, especially during the socialist period, when educational and cultural exchanges brought many Vietnamese students and workers to Hungary. Direct Vietnamese loanwords in Hungarian are few, but some terms connected with food, plants, and cultural traditions entered Hungarian, often through French or English mediation. These borrowings are mainly culinary and cultural, reflecting Vietnam’s growing global influence.

pho Vietnamese noodle soup
bánh mì Vietnamese sandwich
nón lá conical hat
ao dai traditional Vietnamese dress
Saigon former capital city now Ho Chi Minh City
Hanoi capital city of Vietnam
Viet Vietnamese people
Nuoc mam fish sauce
Vietkong Viet Cong revolutionary group
dong Vietnamese currency
banh cuon steamed rice roll
banh xeo crispy rice pancake
cha gio spring roll
bun bo hue spicy beef noodle soup
com tam broken rice dish
ca phe Vietnamese coffee
bo kho beef stew
bun cha grilled pork with noodles
tet Vietnamese New Year festival
lang village hamlet

Vietnamese Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Wolof-speaking world of West Africa have had no direct historical contact, but Wolof words spread widely through French and English during the colonial era, trade, and later music and culture. Some of these words became international and eventually reached Hungarian, usually through French cultural mediation. They are rare in everyday Hungarian, but they appear in gastronomy, music, and cultural contexts, reflecting Senegal’s and West Africa’s influence.

banjo banjo string instrument
gumbo okra stew
jazz jazz music
hip hip trendy stylish
nyam-nyam food eat
samba dance music style
voodoo spiritual practice
yassa Senegalese chicken dish
djembe West African drum
wolof Wolof people and language

Wolof Loanwords in Hungarian

Yoruba Loanwords in Hungarian

Hungary and the Yoruba-speaking world of West Africa have had no direct historical ties, but Yoruba culture influenced Europe through the Atlantic slave trade, colonial encounters, and later global music and religion. Many Yoruba words entered European languages via English, Portuguese, and French, and some of these eventually reached Hungarian. These borrowings usually appear in the contexts of music, religion, and cultural studies, rather than in everyday speech, but they reflect the global impact of Yoruba traditions.

juju magical practice music style
sango Yoruba god of thunder
egungun masked ancestor spirit
yoruba Yoruba people and language
babalawo Yoruba priest diviner
ashe spiritual power energy
orisha deity in Yoruba religion
sopá ritual chant or invocation
gele traditional Yoruba headwrap

Hungary and the Zulu-speaking world of Southern Africa have not had direct historical relations, but certain Zulu words became internationally known through colonial encounters, anthropology, and later global culture. These terms entered Hungarian indirectly via English, German, or Afrikaans. They usually relate to warfare, music, dance, and cultural practices of the Zulu people, and while rare in Hungarian everyday speech, they appear in academic, ethnographic, or cultural contexts.

zulu Zulu people and language
impala antelope species
marimba African percussion instrument
safari journey expedition
indaba council meeting
ubuntu humanity philosophy
mamba African snake
shaka Zulu leader Shaka Zulu
sangoma traditional healer
kwela South African music style

Zulu Loanwords in Hungarian

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