List of English words of Finnish origin

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The Finnish language has lent few loanwords to the English language; Finnish is rather a net importer of words from English.

However the following words of Finnish origin are some examples:

Widespread[]

The most commonly used Finnish word in English is sauna, which has also been loaned to many other languages.

Specialized[]

Words derived from Finnish used in more specialized fields:

Cultural[]

In English, Finnish words used with reference to the Finnish culture, but not nativized in English and not used in other contexts:

  • sisu - the Finnish state of mind about strong character and 'grim forbearance,' has been documented in English since at least 1940.
  • kantele - a Finnish zither
  • motti - a Finnish military tactic
  • salmiakki - a salty liquorice and popular Finnish candy
  • Kilju - a homemade alcoholic beverage

See also[]

External links[]

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