English words that are derived from the Hungarian language — Part II

The Hungarians have adopted many things from other countries throughout history. However, the opposite is true as well. The countries and cultures of the world owe a lot to the Hungarians. In addition to many foods, customs and inventions, there are several words in the English language that derive from Hungarian.

This article is the second in this series. If you are curious about more English words that derive from Hungarian, check out our previous article here.

Coach

Kocs is a village near Tata. The museum here houses the coach (German: kutsche) that revolutionised long-distance transport in the 1500s. The vehicle made here was more comfortable and safer than the ones that came before. The horse-drawn vehicle with steel suspension quickly became popular. Hence, the word coach in English. Later, the word came to mean not only the vehicle but also the driving and steering.

Goulash

There are several famous Hungarian dishes. Perhaps, one of the most famous Hungarian dishes is goulash or goulash soup. Goulash soup has been a Hungaricum since 2017. Goulash is based on onions, peppers and beef. The dish originates from the shepherd’s bread of the lowlands.

Sabre

A sabre is a single-edged sword with a curved blade. The weapon itself originates from China. However, the name is derived from the Hungarian word ‘sablya’, with French interpolation. In Hungary, it spread during the migration of the people, but in medieval Hungary, the use of double-edged swords declined.

Pusta

The Hungarian puszta is a kind of steppe. It is most typical of temperate climates.

Shako

From csákó süveg, peaked cap, a stiff military hat with a high crown and plume.

Puli, vizsla, kuvasz, komondor

Hungarians are famous not only for their food but also for their dog breeds. Poodle, vizsla, kuvasz and komondor are also known by these names in English.

Read alsoFamous Hungarian mythologies