Definition

Noun: 1. A member of the Hindu people of Nepalese descent: A Gurkha is a person belonging to a Hindu ethnic group, with ancestral roots tracing back to Brahmins and Rajputs, primarily living in Nepal. 2. A soldier in a Nepalese military unit serving in the British Army: A Gurkha is a member of the renowned Nepalese regiments that have served as part of the British Army for about two centuries, famous for their exceptional bravery and combat skills.

Usage Examples

• As a member of the Nepalese people:
  • The Gurkha are known for their rich cultural traditions in the Himalayan region.
  • He is a Gurkha from a village in western Nepal.
• As a soldier in the British Army:
  • The retired Gurkha was awarded a medal for his service.
  • Gurkha regiments have served with distinction in many conflicts.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used attributively (like an adjective) to describe things related to these soldiers or their people, such as Gurkha regiment, Gurkha heritage, or Gurkha knife (the traditional kukri blade).
• In a historical or military context, "Gurkha" symbolizes loyalty, courage, and formidable fighting prowess.

Variants and Related Words

• Gurkhas (plural noun): The plural form, referring to multiple members of this group or soldiers.
  • The Gurkhas have a formidable reputation.

Synonyms

• Nepalese soldier (for the military sense).
• Nepali (a more general term for a citizen of Nepal, not specific to the Gurkha ethnic identity or military tradition).

Notes on Meaning

• The first meaning refers to an ethnic and cultural identity.
• The second meaning refers to a specific military profession and tradition within the British Army. A person can be a Gurkha in the ethnic sense without being a soldier, and historically, soldiers recruited as Gurkhas come from specific ethnic groups within Nepal.

Noun

1. a member of Hindu people descended from brahmins and Rajputs who live in Nepal
2. a member of the Nepalese force that has been part of the British army for 200 years; known for fierceness in combat