Sheng and Swahili Make Their Mark in Oxford English Dictionary

The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has recently expanded its lexicon to include several Swahili and Sheng words.

Among the new additions is the Sheng term “panya route,” which refers to a clandestine path often utilized to evade detection or transport illicit goods. The term combines the Swahili word “panya,” meaning mouse, with the English word “route,” exemplifying the hybrid nature of Sheng, a Kenyan street language that blends Swahili and English. The OED defines a “panya route” as a secret path, particularly one employed for smuggling activities.
Another noteworthy inclusion is “kitu kidogo,” a phrase used to describe a minor bribe or token offered in exchange for a favour.

The term, which entered English usage in the early 1990s, combines “kitu” (thing or item) with “kidogo” (small or insignificant). The OED clarifies that “kitu kidogo” refers to money proffered or accepted as an incentive or bribe. The dictionary has also incorporated “rolex,” a popular Ugandan street food consisting of an omelette and vegetables encased in chapati. The name is a clever play on “rolled eggs,” highlighting the culinary creativity and cultural significance of the dish.

This recent update follows a previous inclusion of Swahili and Sheng words in mid-2022, which saw the addition of terms such as “mpango wa kando” (a clandestine romantic partner), “chapo” (chapati), “uhuru” (freedom), and various other words related to traditional foods, clothing, and cultural practices. The incorporation of these terms reflects the widespread usage and cultural importance of Swahili, a language spoken by over 200 million people, primarily in East Africa but also in other parts of the world. The OED’s recognition of these words reflects the dynamic and evolving nature of language, as well as the influence of East African culture on the global stage.

Sheng, in particular, has emerged as a vibrant and evolving linguistic phenomenon in Kenya, especially among younger generations. Originating in Nairobi during the 1960s, it has since proliferated in other urban areas. Characterized by its fluidity, Sheng continually assimilates new words and phrases from various languages, including English, Swahili, and local dialects.