joala, noun

Forms:
Also jwala.
Origin:
Southern Sotho, Northern Sotho, isiZuluShow more Southern Sotho bjalwa, Northern Sotho bjala; however, in some quotations the writers may be representing the pronunciation of isiZulu utshwala (see tshwala).
Especially among Sotho people: tshwala sense a i.
1854 R.B. Struthers Hunting Jrnl (1991) 56The Kraals round to supply joalla in turns.
1909 Illust. London News (U.K.) 8 Jan. 4In keeping all other liquors, except jwala, away from the Natives.., the very best interests of all sections of the population will be duly cared for.
1940 V. Pohl Bushveld Adventures 22No doubt he was dumbfounded when told of his escapades while under the influence of jwala.
1955 W. Illsley Wagon on Fire 43They were regaling themselves with joala in the ‘den’.
1976 Drum Sept. 76I don’t sell joala.
a1977 K.M.C. Motsisi in M. Mutloatse Casey & Co. (1978) 69The wells are dry. No more joala. No mahog or paraffin (gin).
1987 R. Ntoula in City Press 26 Apr. 7Basotho men aimlessly roaming the streets hoping to be invited for a free jwala.
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18541987