How Do You Spell MATABELE?

Pronunciation: [mˈate͡ɪbə͡l] (IPA)

The correct spelling of the word "matabele" follows the IPA phonetic transcription of /mætəˈbeɪli/. The initial "ma" syllable is pronounced with a short "a" sound followed by a light stress on the subsequent "ta" syllable. The second "a" sound in the middle of the word is also pronounced as a short "a" sound, followed by the stressed "be" syllable. The final two syllables are pronounced as a single syllable with the long "e" sound in "Lee". It is important to spell the word correctly so that communication is clear and effective.

MATABELE Meaning and Definition

1. Matabele refers to a term with both geographical and ethnic connotations. Geographically, it denotes the region or plateau inhabited by the Ndebele people in southern Africa, specifically in Zimbabwe and western parts of Mozambique. Ethnically, it pertains to the Ndebele people themselves, who are a Bantu-speaking ethnic group primarily residing in the above-mentioned areas.

   The Matabele region is characterized by its rolling hills and diverse vegetation, creating a distinct landscape. Historically, the Ndebele people were known for their remarkable warrior culture and the formation of the Matabele kingdom under the leadership of King Mzilikazi in the early 19th century. The Matabele kingdom represented a significant political entity, encompassing territories in present-day Zimbabwe and neighboring regions.

   The term "Matabele" is often used to describe the language, customs, traditions, and cultural practices specific to the Ndebele people. It includes their unique artistic expressions, such as intricate beadwork, vibrant mural paintings, and impressive sculptures in their distinctive Ndebele style. The Ndebele people are also recognized for their cattle rearing and agriculture, with maize being a staple crop.

   The Matabele heritage has persisted over generations, establishing a rich identity for the Ndebele people and contributing to the cultural tapestry of southern Africa as a whole. Today, the term "Matabele" serves as a reference to this specific group of people, their historical significance, and their unique contributions to the societal fabric of the region.

Common Misspellings for MATABELE

• natabele
• katabele
• jatabele
• mztabele
• mstabele
• mwtabele
• mqtabele
• marabele
• mafabele
• magabele
• mayabele
• ma6abele
• ma5abele
• matzbele
• matsbele
• matwbele
• matqbele
• matavele
• matanele

Etymology of MATABELE

The term "Matabele" is derived from the language of the Ndebele people, a large ethnic group primarily residing in Zimbabwe and South Africa. The Ndebele language, also known as isiNdebele, gives the word "amaTebele", meaning "the people of the long shields". This term refers to the traditional cowhide shields that the Ndebele warriors historically used in battle. Over time, "amaTebele" was anglicized to "Matabele" and became the common name for this ethnic group.

Plural form of MATABELE is MATABELES