Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A Bantu language: Ndebele refers to a Bantu language spoken in parts of Southern Africa. It is sometimes classified as a dialect of Zulu.

Usage

• The word "Ndebele" is used as the name of a specific language. It is a proper noun and is typically capitalized.
• It is used in linguistic, cultural, and geographical contexts to identify the language and its speakers.

Examples

• Proper noun:
  • She is learning to speak Ndebele.
  • The Ndebele language has rich oral traditions.

Advanced Usage

• Ethnolinguistic reference: The term can also refer to the people who speak this language, often distinguished as the Northern Ndebele (of Zimbabwe) or the Southern Ndebele (of South Africa). However, the core definition pertains to the language itself.
  • The museum exhibit showcases Ndebele art and culture.

Variants and Related Words

• isiNdebele: The full, native name for the language in some contexts.
• Zulu: A closely related Bantu language. Ndebele is sometimes considered a dialect of Zulu, though they are distinct languages.

Synonyms

• isiNdebele: (The native name, used as a synonym in specific contexts).

Notes on Meaning

• The primary meaning is linguistic. When referring to the people, it is often specified as "the Ndebele people." The standalone term "Ndebele" most precisely denotes the language.

Noun

1. a Bantu language sometimes considered a dialect of Zulu