bwana

[ bwah-nuh ]

noun

1. (in Africa) master; boss.

bwana

/ ˈbwɑːnə /

noun

1. (in E Africa) a master, often used as a respectful form of address corresponding to sir

Word History and Origins

Origin of bwana¹

1875–80; < Swahili < Arabic abūnā our father

Word History and Origins

Origin of bwana¹

Swahili, from Arabic abūna our father

Example Sentences

“Bwana coming,” said he shortly, and as noiselessly disappeared.

From Project Gutenberg

Was he not a Bwana, a white man, and therefore one who knew all things?

From Project Gutenberg

“Take it to Bascombe Bwana and ask him to fire it from his guns,” said he.

From Project Gutenberg

And when Bwana, loving me still more, can pay more, ole chap.

From Project Gutenberg

"Na zani zikutatu, Bwana" (I think it is three days, master), replied Susi.

From Project Gutenberg