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Mzungu is a Swahili word for "white person" (pl. 'wazungu'). The equivalent in many Bantu languages in East Africa is Muzungu (pl. 'bazungu'). Nzungu or muzungu is often heard by traveling caucasians in the countries of East Africa shouted by children. Occasionally accompanied by pointing, jumping, and the question/statement "how are you I'm fine!" repeated several times.

The etymology of the word stems from a contraction of words meaning "one who moves around," and was coined to describe European traders who traveled through East African countries in the 18th century. The word became synonymous with "white person" because of the traders' complexion. Some Tanzanian and Kenyan villages have not been visited by "mzungu" for more that 30 years, making caucasian passers-through an odd sight for young natives.

Similarly, kizungu means "language of the white man," but is almost synonymous to kiingereza (English language), as it is the language most often used by Wazungu in East Africa.

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Mzungu is a song by the band 7 Seconds of Love