14 Languages That Have Influenced English the Most

The English language, renowned for its vast and diverse vocabulary, is a melting pot of linguistic influences worldwide. Throughout history, English has absorbed words and phrases from many languages, enriching its lexicon and evolving into the dynamic language we know today.

From Latin and Greek’s ancient tongues to Japanese and Russian’s modern contributions, each language has left an indelible mark on English.

In this article, we explore the 14 languages that have most significantly influenced English, tracing the origins of everyday words and uncovering the fascinating history behind them.

1. Latin

Latin has profoundly influenced English, especially in law, science, religion, and education. As the language of the Roman Empire and later scholars, many Latin terms entered English via Old French and Middle English.

In law, Latin phrases like “habeas corpus” (you shall have the body) and “subpoena” (under penalty) are still used today. In science and medicine, terms such as “species,” “genus,” “vaccine,” and “virus” have Latin roots, reflecting the language’s historical role in scientific discourse.

Religious and educational contexts also bear Latin’s mark, with terms like “altar,” “priest,” “university,” and “curriculum” originating from Latin. Everyday English words, including “animal,” “decimal,” “human,” and “manual,” also trace back to Latin, demonstrating the enduring impact of this ancient language on modern English.

2. French

French has significantly impacted English, especially following the Norman Conquest of 1066. When William the Conqueror took control of England, French became the language of the ruling class, administration, and legal system. This influence is evident in the many French-derived words in English today, particularly in law, art, literature, and cuisine.

French heavily influences legal terminology in English. Words such as “court,” “judge,” “jury,” and “justice” all have French origins. This reflects the administrative changes brought about by the Norman rulers.

In the arts and literature, French has contributed many terms that are still used. Words like “genre,” “ballet,” “fable,” and “romance” highlight the rich cultural exchanges between England and France over the centuries.

Culinary vocabulary is another area in which French has left its mark. Terms like “restaurant,” “menu,” “chef,” and “cuisine” are all borrowed from French, reflecting the historical and ongoing influence of French culinary traditions on English-speaking countries.

Everyday vocabulary is also replete with French words. Examples include “beauty,” “color,” “move,” and “travel,” showing how deeply French has been integrated into English.

The extensive borrowing from French has made a lasting impact on the English language, enriching its vocabulary and adding a layer of cultural depth that continues to be felt in modern English.

3. German

While not as pervasive as Latin or French, German has contributed many words to English, particularly in philosophy, science, technology, and everyday vocabulary. The influence of German is evident in various fields, reflecting the historical connections and cultural exchanges between German-speaking regions and the English-speaking world.

In philosophy, many terms have been borrowed directly from German. Words like “zeitgeist” (spirit of the age), “weltanschauung” (worldview), and “übermensch” (superman) convey complex philosophical concepts first articulated by German thinkers.

Scientific and technical terminology also showcases German influence. Terms such as “kindergarten” (children’s garden), “doppelgänger” (double), and “angst” (anxiety) have become part of the English lexicon. The word “hamburger,” derived from the city of Hamburg, is a prime example of how German words have entered everyday language.

German has also contributed many everyday words. Words like “rucksack” (backpack), “wanderlust” (desire to travel), and “fest” (celebration) are used in common parlance, reflecting the cultural impact of German-speaking countries on English-speaking ones.

The German influence on English underscores the historical and cultural ties between the two linguistic communities. The borrowed terms enrich English by adding depth and specificity, particularly in areas where German culture and scholarship have been particularly influential.

4. Old Norse

Old Norse, the language of the Vikings, has left a lasting imprint on the English language, particularly through everyday vocabulary and place names. The Viking invasions and subsequent settlements in England during the 8th to 11th centuries facilitated the exchange of words and cultural practices between Old Norse and Old English speakers.

Old Norse heavily influences everyday vocabulary. Common words such as “sky,” “egg,” “knife,” “window,” and “husband” all have Old Norse origins. These words entered English through daily interactions between the Anglo-Saxons and the Norse settlers.

Place names across England also reflect Old Norse influence. Many towns and villages, especially in the north and east of England, have names ending in “-by” (meaning village) or “-thorpe” (meaning farm or settlement), such as Whitby and Scunthorpe. These suffixes are a testament to the Norse presence in these regions.

Old Norse also influenced certain grammatical features of English. For instance, the simplification of verb conjugations and the adoption of the pronoun “they” and its related forms “their” and “them” can be traced back to Old Norse.

Old Norse has also influenced English idioms and expressions. Phrases like “to take someone down a peg” and “to give up the ghost” have Norse origins, enriching the English language with vivid imagery and expressions.

The contributions of Old Norse to English highlight the profound impact of the Viking Age on the linguistic and cultural landscape of England. Integrating Old Norse words into English is a testament to the dynamic and evolving nature of language.

5. Greek

Greek has significantly influenced the English language, particularly in the realms of science, medicine, philosophy, and the arts. The impact of Greek is evident in the many English words derived from Greek roots, prefixes, and suffixes, reflecting the profound legacy of ancient Greek culture and scholarship.

In science and medicine, Greek has contributed a vast array of terminology. Words like “biology” (the study of life), “physics” (nature), “anatomy” (cutting up), and “psychiatry” (healing of the soul) all have Greek origins. Greek prefixes and suffixes such as “photo-” (light), “geo-” (earth), “micro-” (small), and “-logy” (study of) are ubiquitous in scientific terminology.

Philosophy is another field deeply influenced by the Greeks. Terms like “democracy” (rule of the people), “ethics” (character), “metaphysics” (beyond the physical), and “logic” (reason) originate from Greek. The works of ancient Greek philosophers like Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates have left an enduring mark on Western thought and language.

The arts and literature also bear Greek influences. Words such as “theater” (a place for viewing), “drama” (action), “tragedy” (goat song), and “comedy” (revel song) come from Greek, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of ancient Greece.

Everyday English vocabulary includes numerous Greek-derived words. Examples include “telephone” (distant sound), “automobile” (self-moving), “photograph” (light writing), and “architecture” (chief builder). These words illustrate the extensive integration of Greek into English.

The influence of Greek on English underscores the historical importance of Greek civilization in shaping Western culture and intellectual traditions. Greek’s contributions have enriched English, providing precise and expressive terms for various concepts and fields.

6. Dutch

Dutch has influenced the English language in several areas, especially through trade, exploration, and maritime activities. The historical interactions between the English and Dutch-speaking people have left a mark on the vocabulary of English, particularly in terms of commerce, navigation, and everyday objects.

In the realm of trade and commerce, many Dutch words have been incorporated into English. Terms such as “cookie” (from Dutch “koekje” meaning little cake), “coleslaw” (from Dutch “koolsla” meaning cabbage salad), and “yacht” (from Dutch “jacht” meaning hunt) reflect the exchange of goods and culinary practices between the two cultures.

Dutch has also significantly impacted maritime terminology. Words like “skipper” (from Dutch “schipper” meaning ship’s captain), “keel” (from Dutch “kiel” meaning ship’s bottom), and “deck” (from Dutch “dek” meaning covering) are derived from Dutch. These terms highlight the importance of Dutch seafaring and shipbuilding during the Age of Exploration.

Everyday vocabulary also includes Dutch-derived words. For example, “boss” (from Dutch “baas” meaning master), “brandy” (from Dutch “brandewijn” meaning burnt wine), and “freight” (from Dutch “vracht” meaning goods carried) have become common in English.

Dutch has also influenced place names and surnames in English-speaking regions, particularly in areas with historical Dutch settlements, such as New York (formerly New Amsterdam). Names like “Brooklyn” (from Dutch “Breukelen”) and “Harlem” (from Dutch “Haarlem”) reflect this heritage.

The influence of Dutch on English showcases the rich history of cultural and economic exchange between the two languages. Dutch contributions have enriched English with precise terms for trade, navigation, and everyday life, underscoring the dynamic nature of language evolution.

7. Italian

Italian has made a significant impact on the English language, particularly in the areas of music, art, literature, and cuisine. The rich cultural heritage of Italy and its historical prominence during the Renaissance have left a lasting imprint on English vocabulary.

Italian terms are ubiquitous in the world of music. Words like “piano” (soft), “forte” (loud), “allegro” (lively), and “opera” (work) are all borrowed from Italian. These terms reflect the foundational role of Italian composers and musicians in developing Western classical music.

Italian has also influenced art and literature. Terms such as “fresco” (fresh), “studio” (study), “novella” (new story), and “sonnet” (little song) come from Italian. The Renaissance, with its explosion of creativity and innovation in Italy, introduced many of these concepts to the wider European world, and subsequently to English.

Cuisine is another domain where Italian has left a significant mark. Words like “pizza,” “pasta,” “lasagna,” “gelato,” and “espresso” are now part of everyday English, reflecting the global popularity of Italian food. These culinary terms bring a taste of Italian culture to English-speaking countries.

Everyday vocabulary also features Italian-derived words. For instance, “graffiti” (inscriptions), “quota” (share), “stanza” (room or verse), and “influenza” (influence, originally referring to the effect of stars on health) have Italian origins. These words illustrate the diverse ways in which Italian has enriched English.

The influence of Italian on English highlights the cultural exchanges that have shaped the languages and societies of Europe. Italian contributions have added a layer of artistic, musical, and culinary richness to English, enhancing its expressiveness and cultural depth.

8. Spanish

Spanish has significantly influenced English, especially through exploration, colonization, and cultural exchanges. The impact of Spanish is particularly evident in vocabulary related to geography, culture, and cuisine.

Geographical terms often reflect the influence of Spanish explorers and settlers. Words like “canyon” (from Spanish “cañón”), “mesa” (table), “plaza” (square), and “savanna” (from Spanish “sabana,” originally from Taino) are part of English vocabulary, describing features of the landscape encountered during exploration and colonization.

Cultural terms from Spanish have also enriched English. Words such as “fiesta” (party), “siesta” (nap), “rodeo” (roundup), and “patio” (courtyard) highlight the social and cultural interactions between English and Spanish-speaking communities.

Spanish cuisine has profoundly influenced English, with many food-related words becoming part of everyday usage. Terms like “taco,” “burrito,” “enchilada,” “salsa,” and “guacamole” are widely recognized and used, reflecting the popularity and integration of Mexican and Spanish foods into English-speaking cultures.

Numerous Spanish-derived words are included in everyday vocabulary. Examples include “loco” (crazy), “vigilante” (watchman), “bronco” (rough), and “armada” (fleet). These words often entered English through historical interactions and have since become common in everyday speech.

Spanish has also influenced place names in English-speaking countries, particularly in the United States. Names like “Los Angeles” (The Angels), “San Francisco” (Saint Francis), and “Colorado” (colored red) are a testament to the Spanish colonial heritage in North America.

The influence of Spanish on English underscores the historical and cultural connections between the two languages. Spanish contributions have enriched English with a vibrant array of words that reflect the shared history and diverse interactions of English-speaking peoples.

9. Arabic

Arabic has had a considerable impact on the English language, particularly in the fields of science, mathematics, and everyday items. The influence of Arabic dates back to the Middle Ages when Arabic-speaking scholars were at the forefront of scientific and intellectual advancements, which were later transmitted to Europe.

In science and mathematics, many terms of Arabic origin are used in English. Words like “algebra” (from Arabic “al-jabr,” meaning reunion of broken parts), “algorithm” (from the name of the Persian mathematician Al-Khwarizmi), “chemistry” (from “al-kīmiyā”), and “zenith” (from “samt,” meaning direction) reflect the significant contributions of Arabic scholars to these fields.

Arabic-derived words also appear in everyday items and concepts. Examples include “coffee” (from Arabic “qahwa”), “sugar” (from Arabic “sukkar”), “cotton” (from Arabic “quṭn”), and “magazine” (from Arabic “makhazin,” meaning storehouses). These words entered English through trade and cultural exchanges, highlighting the global influence of the Arab world.

Arabic has also contributed words related to administration and technology. Terms like “tariff” (from Arabic “ta‘ārif”), “admiral” (from “amīr al-baḥr,” meaning commander of the sea), and “arsenal” (from “dār al-ṣinā‘a,” meaning house of manufacturing) demonstrate the historical importance of Arabic in commerce and governance.

In literature and the arts, Arabic has left its mark with words such as “sherbet” (from Arabic “sharbat,” meaning a drink), “ghoul” (from “ghūl,” a mythical creature), and “alcohol” (from “al-kuḥl,” originally referring to a fine powder). These terms reflect the rich cultural and intellectual exchanges between the Arab world and Europe.

The influence of Arabic on English highlights the historical connections and contributions of the Arabic-speaking world to global knowledge and culture. Arabic’s contributions have enriched English with precise terms and concepts, particularly in science, mathematics, and everyday life.

10. Hindi/Urdu

Hindi and Urdu have contributed several words to the English language, particularly during the British colonial period in India. These languages have left a mark on English vocabulary, especially concerning culture, food, and everyday life.

Many words related to Indian culture and everyday items entered English during the colonial era. Examples include “bungalow” (from Hindi “banglā,” meaning a type of house), “pyjamas” (from Urdu “pāyjāma,” meaning leg garment), “jungle” (from Hindi “jangal,” meaning forest), and “loot” (from Hindi “lūṭ,” meaning to plunder).

Culinary terms from Hindi and Urdu have also enriched English. Words like “curry” (from Tamil “kari,” but popularized through Hindi/Urdu usage), “chai” (from Hindi “cāy,” meaning tea), “masala” (from Hindi “masālā,” meaning spice mix), and “punch” (from Hindi “pāñć,” meaning five, referring to the five ingredients of the original drink) are now commonplace in English-speaking countries.

Other everyday words of Hindi/Urdu origin include “veranda” (from Hindi “varaṇḍā”), “khaki” (from Urdu “khākī,” meaning dust-colored), “thug” (from Hindi “ṭhag,” meaning a swindler), and “shampoo” (from Hindi “cāmpū,” meaning to massage). These terms reflect the daily interactions and cultural exchanges during the British colonial period.

The influence of Hindi and Urdu on English underscores the historical connections between Britain and the Indian subcontinent. These contributions have enriched the English language with various words that reflect the diverse cultural heritage and everyday life of the Indian subcontinent.

Portuguese has influenced the English language through exploration, trade, and cultural exchanges, particularly during the Age of Exploration when Portuguese explorers traveled extensively. The impact of Portuguese is most evident in vocabulary related to navigation, geography, and cuisine.

Many words related to navigation and exploration entered English from Portuguese. Terms like “navigator” (from Portuguese “navegador”), “embarcation” (from Portuguese “embarcação”), and “veranda” (from Portuguese “varanda,” meaning balcony) highlight the maritime prowess of the Portuguese during the 15th and 16th centuries.

Geographical terms and place names also reflect Portuguese influence. Words such as “mango” (from Portuguese “manga,” originally from Malayalam), “banana” (from Portuguese “banana,” originally from Wolof), and “Zebra” (from Portuguese “zebra”) showcase the global reach of Portuguese explorers and traders who introduced these terms to Europe.

Portuguese cuisine has also contributed to English vocabulary. Terms like “piri-piri” (from Portuguese “piripíri,” a type of chili pepper), “tempura” (from Portuguese “tempero,” meaning seasoning, via Japanese), and “malagueta” (a type of chili pepper) reflect the culinary exchanges between Portuguese and other cultures.

English everyday vocabulary also includes several words of Portuguese origin. Examples include “fetish” (from Portuguese “feitiço,” meaning charm or sorcery), “cobra” (from Portuguese “cobra,” meaning snake), and “marmalade” (from Portuguese “marmelada,” meaning quince jam). These terms were often introduced through trade and cultural contact.

Portuguese influence on English highlights the historical significance of Portuguese exploration and trade. Portuguese contributions have enriched English with words that reflect a wide range of cultural, geographical, and culinary influences, underscoring the interconnectedness of global languages.

13. Japanese

Japanese has influenced the English language, particularly in the fields of technology, culture, and cuisine. Its impact is most notable in the vocabulary related to modern innovations, cultural phenomena, and popular food items.

In the realm of technology, Japanese has contributed several terms to English. Words like “karaoke” (from Japanese “kara” meaning empty and “oke” meaning orchestra), “emoji” (from Japanese “e” meaning picture and “moji” meaning character), and “tsunami” (from Japanese “tsu” meaning harbor and “nami” meaning wave) are widely used in English today. These terms reflect Japan’s technological advancements and the global influence of its cultural products.

Japanese culture has also enriched English vocabulary with unique concepts and practices. Words such as “samurai” (a member of the Japanese warrior class), “kimono” (a traditional Japanese garment), “origami” (the art of paper folding), and “bonsai” (the art of growing miniature trees) highlight Japan’s distinct cultural contributions to the English-speaking world.

Japanese cuisine has significantly impacted English, introducing a variety of food-related terms. Words like “sushi” (vinegared rice with seafood or vegetables), “tempura” (battered and deep-fried seafood or vegetables), “teriyaki” (a cooking technique involving a sweet soy glaze), and “ramen” (a noodle soup dish) are now commonly used in English. These culinary terms reflect the global popularity of Japanese food.

Everyday vocabulary also includes Japanese-derived words that have been adopted into English. Examples include “tycoon” (from Japanese “taikun,” meaning great lord), “geisha” (a traditional Japanese female entertainer), and “haiku” (a form of Japanese poetry). These words showcase Japan’s broad cultural influence on the English language.

The influence of Japanese on English underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of language, shaped by cultural exchanges and global interactions. The contributions of Japanese have enriched English with terms that reflect technological innovation, cultural depth, and culinary excellence.

14. Russian

Russian has influenced the English language in various domains, including politics, science, and culture. This influence was especially strong during the 20th century, when the Soviet Union’s geopolitical significance brought many Russian terms into global usage.

In politics, Russian has contributed several terms to English. Words such as “tsar” (from Russian “царь” meaning emperor), “bolshevik” (from Russian “большевик” meaning majority, referring to a member of the majority faction of the Russian Social Democratic Party), and “glasnost” (from Russian “гласность” meaning openness) became common during and after the Russian Revolution and throughout the Cold War era. These terms reflect the significant political and historical events that shaped global discourse.

Scientific and technological advancements in Russia have also introduced Russian terms into English. Words like “sputnik” (from Russian “спутник” meaning satellite or companion), “cosmonaut” (from Russian “космонавт” meaning space traveler), and “samovar” (from Russian “самовар” meaning self-boiler, a type of tea urn) highlight the contributions of Russian science and innovation to the world.

Cultural terms from Russia have also enriched English vocabulary. Words such as “ballet” (from Russian “балет,” though originally from French, popularized through Russian influence), “troika” (from Russian “тройка,” meaning a set of three, particularly a three-horse carriage), and “balalaika” (a traditional Russian stringed musical instrument) reflect Russia’s rich cultural heritage.

Everyday vocabulary in English includes several words of Russian origin. Examples include “intelligentsia” (from Russian “интеллигенция” referring to the intellectual elite), “babushka” (from Russian “бабушка” meaning grandmother or an elderly woman), and “vodka” (from Russian “водка” meaning little water). These terms entered English through cultural exchange and highlight the unique aspects of Russian life and society.

The influence of Russian on English underscores the historical, scientific, and cultural exchanges between Russia and the English-speaking world. Russian contributions have added depth and variety to English, reflecting the interconnected nature of global languages and cultures.