Zulu

1 of 2

noun

Zu·​lu ˈzü-(ˌ)lü 

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

Noun

But in every production, Rafiki sings the very first line in Zulu—my language never changes, and that represents the authenticity of the show. — Zama Magudulela, Travel + Leisure, 15 May 2026

Steel drums, alien synths, verses in Spanish, Arabic, and Zulu—yes. — Will Lynch, Pitchfork, 11 May 2026

Like most of the best ideas, Zulu says the perfect solution came to him in the shower. — Meredith Wilshere, PEOPLE, 1 May 2026

Through his work with the Universal Zulu Nation, Bambaataa helped spread hip-hop culture around the world. — Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 10 Apr. 2026

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

Rhymes for Zulu

• accrue
• ado
• ainu
• aircrew
• airscrew
• anew
• askew
• baboo
• babu
• bamboo
• beaucoup
• bijou

Kids Definition

Zulu

noun

Zu·​lu

ˈzü-lü

plural Zulu or Zulus

: a member of a Bantu-speaking people of South Africa

Zulu adjective