VocabDictionary

zaire

/zaɪˈɪər/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The former official name of the Democratic Republic of the Congo between 1971 and 1997.

Example Sentences:
  • During the 1974 'Rumble in the Jungle', the famous heavyweight boxing match took place in Zaire.
  • The political landscape of Central Africa shifted dramatically following the collapse of Zaire.
2.noun

The former currency of the Democratic Republic of the Congo between 1967 and 1997.

Example Sentences:
  • Hyperinflation in the final years of Mobutu's rule rendered the zaire virtually worthless.
  • Collectors often seek out old banknotes featuring the zaire alongside the portrait of the president.
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Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “zaire”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from a Portuguese corruption of a local Kongo word, 'nzere' or 'nzadi', meaning 'river that swallows all rivers' (referring to the Congo River). It was adopted as the official name of the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 1971 to 1997 under the regime of President Mobutu Sese Seko, as well as the name of the national currency used during that period.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'Zaire' as a historical time capsule representing the former name of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and its past currency.

Rhyming Words

Frequently Asked Questions About “zaire

1. What is the meaning of “zaire” in English?

In English, zaire (noun) is defined as: “The former official name of the Democratic Republic of the Congo between 1971 and 1997.”.

2. How do you use “zaire” in a sentence?

During the 1974 'Rumble in the Jungle', the famous heavyweight boxing match took place in Zaire.

3. What are English synonyms of “zaire”?

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “zaire”?

Derived from a Portuguese corruption of a local Kongo word, 'nzere' or 'nzadi', meaning 'river that swallows all rivers' (referring to the Congo River). It was adopted as the official name of the Democratic Republic of the Congo from 1971 to 1997 under the regime of President Mobutu Sese Seko, as well as the name of the national currency used during that period.