gurkha: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal, Historical, Military
Quick answer
What does “gurkha” mean?
A member of any of several Nepalese peoples, or a soldier from Nepal serving in the British or Indian army.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A member of any of several Nepalese peoples, or a soldier from Nepal serving in the British or Indian army.
Also refers to anything associated with these peoples, such as their culture, a type of knife (kukri), or regiments bearing the name.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Far more common in British English due to the historical and ongoing presence of Gurkha regiments in the British Army. In American English, it is primarily a historical or specialist military term.
Connotations
In British English, connotes bravery, loyalty, and elite military service. In American English, the connotations are less culturally embedded and more purely descriptive.
Frequency
High frequency in UK military/political discourse; low-to-medium frequency in general US English.
Grammar
How to Use “gurkha” in a Sentence
[the] Gurkhas + V (served, fought, are renowned)a Gurkha + N (rifleman, officer, knife)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “gurkha” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He received the Gurkha bravery award.
- They uphold Gurkha traditions.
American English
- The museum displayed a Gurkha kukri.
- He studied Gurkha history.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Academic
Used in historical, anthropological, and military studies contexts.
Everyday
Rare in casual conversation outside the UK or military circles.
Technical
Specific term in military history and organization.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “gurkha”
Neutral
Weak
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “gurkha”
- Spelling: 'Gurka' (incorrect).
- Using as a common noun without capitalisation: 'a gurkha' (incorrect).
- Plural: 'Gurkhas' is standard.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the spelling 'Gurkha' is standard in both varieties, though the older form 'Gorkha' is also seen, reflecting the Nepalese district of origin.
Historically, Gurkha regiments were all male. However, since 2021, women have been eligible to join the Brigade of Gurkhas in the British Army.
'Nepalese' refers to any citizen of Nepal. 'Gurkha' specifically refers to members of certain Nepalese ethnic groups (e.g., Gurung, Magar) or, more commonly, to soldiers from these groups serving in foreign armies.
Gurkhas are renowned for their bravery, resilience, and loyalty. Their military service, particularly in the British and Indian armies over two centuries, has earned them a fearsome reputation and numerous awards for valor.
A member of any of several Nepalese peoples, or a soldier from Nepal serving in the British or Indian army.
Gurkha is usually formal, historical, military in register.
Gurkha: in British English it is pronounced /ˈɡɜː.kə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈɡɝː.kə/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Gurkha sounds like 'work-ha' – think of soldiers who work hard with great heart.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE GURKHA IS A SYMBOL OF FEARLESSNESS (e.g., 'He fought like a Gurkha').
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'kukri' primarily associated with?