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Kwanzaa

The origin and history of Kwanzaa.

Etymology

Coined in 1966 by activist Maulana Karenga from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," meaning "first fruits"; an extra "a" was added so the word would have seven letters, matching Kwanzaa's seven guiding principles.

Origin: Swahili · First attested 1966

Class of 1966

Kwanzaa first entered the language around 1966. Other words from the same year:

See the full Class of 1966 →
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Etymology: FreeDict original editorial.