Zulu

1 of 2

noun

Zu·​lu ˈzü-(ˌ)lü How to pronounce Zulu (audio)
plural Zulu or Zulus
1
: a member of a Bantu-speaking people of Natal
2
: the Bantu language of the Zulus
Zulu adjective

Zulu

2 of 2

communications code word

used as a code word for the letter z

Examples of Zulu 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.
Noun
The new album, Radio Armageddon, will contain 13 other songs, which feature appearances by Schoolly D, the Universal Zulu Nation’s Donald D and Jazzy Jay, Phill Most Chill, and 1/2 Pint, among others. Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 18 Apr. 2025 Many of its popular roasts have patriotic names, such as the Bravo Zulu blend with chocolate and toffee; Commander's Choice hazelnut flavor with a touch of fruit; Depth Charge espresso blend; Missing in Action for its decaffeinated brew; and War Horse Southern Pecan blend. Peter Burke, FOXNews.com, 5 Apr. 2025 Pitchfork has reached out to the representative who worked with Zulu on A New Tomorrow for additional comment and information. Matthew Strauss, Pitchfork, 13 Mar. 2025 The remaining members of Zulu announced the band was going on hiatus and offered a lengthy response to the allegations. August Brown, Los Angeles Times, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Zulu

Word History

Etymology

Noun

Zulu -zula (as in isiZulu the Zulu language)

First Known Use

Noun

1824, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Communications Code Word

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Zulu was in 1824

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Zulu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Zulu. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

Zulu

noun
Zu·​lu
ˈzü-lü
plural Zulu or Zulus
: a member of a Bantu-speaking people of South Africa
Zulu adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on Zulu

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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