Galla

[ gal-uh ]

noun

, plural Gal·las, (especially collectively) Gal·la.

1. Offensive. Oromo.

Galla

/ ˈɡælə /

noun

1. -las-la a member of a tall dark-skinned people inhabiting Somalia and SE Ethiopia
2. the language of this people, belonging to the Cushitic subfamily of the Afro-Asiatic family of languages

Sensitive Note

The Oromo (a nomadic, pastoral people of Ethiopia and Kenya) were formerly called Galla by other Ethiopians, and this name is common in historical texts through the early 20th century. However, Galla was never used by the Oromo themselves, and it is now considered a derogatory name for the people.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Galla¹

First recorded in 1875–80; origin uncertain; perhaps from Amharic or from Arabic ghalīẓ “wild, rough.”

Example Sentences

Ms. Galla, who has won Olympic gold three times for cross-country skiing, took second in the competition behind YouTuber Hampus Hedström.

From Washington Times

Farther west, in Schwerin, Germany, Marina Galla, a computer science teacher who left Mariupol with her 13-year-old son in late March, has found relief and stability.

From Seattle Times

In a black backpack she has carried every day since leaving Mariupol, Galla keeps a handwritten note in a side pocket listing contact information for her mother, father and grandmother.

From Seattle Times

“He probably understands,” Galla said, “that we will not be able to go back there.”

From Seattle Times

Her greatest pop-up hits are served here, including her seven-layer lasagna, miso Caesar salad and, arguably her best dish, the fresh pasta creste di galla with arugula lemon pesto.

From Seattle Times