Beyond the words derived from these five languages, none form their plural other than after the English method, i.e., in -s, as waltzes, from the German word waltz.
[§ 84]. Hence we have a measure of the extent to which a language, which, like the English, at one and the same time requires names for many objects, comes in contact with the tongues of half the world, and has moreover, a great power of incorporating foreign elements, derives fresh words from varied sources; as may be seen from the following incomplete notice of the languages which have, in different degrees, supplied it with new terms.
Arabic.—Admiral, alchemist, alchemy, alcohol, alcove, alembic, algebra, alkali, assassin.
Persian.—Turban, caravan, dervise, &c.
Turkish.—Coffee, bashaw, divan, scimitar, janisary, &c.
Hindoo languages.—Calico, chintz, cowrie, curry, lac, muslin, toddy, &c.
Chinese.—Tea, bohea, congou, hyson, soy, nankin &c.
Malay.—Bantam (fowl), gamboge, rattan, sago, shaddock, &c.
Polynesian.—Taboo, tattoo.