Basotho

noun

Ba·so·tho bä-ˈsō-ˌtō

-ˈsü-ˌtü

plural Basotho also Basothos

: a Bantu-speaking people of Lesotho

also : a member of this people

Examples of Basotho in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Prince Seeiso then reflected on Sentebale's beginnings, calling Prince Harry by the affectionate name the Basotho people use for him and mentioning its meaning. —

Janine Henni, People.com, 2 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Sotho, plural of Mosotho Basotho person, from mo-, class prefix + -sotho, perhaps alteration of motho human being

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of Basotho was in 1903

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Basotho.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Basotho. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

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