noun
- Plural of impi; regiments or battalions of Zulu or other South African warriors, typically organized for warfare.
Usage: Historical; refers to traditional military units of Zulu and related peoples; Often used in historical and anthropological contexts
Examples
- The Zulu impis were known for their disciplined formations and effective tactics.
- Historical accounts describe how the impis were organized by age and experience.
- The impis played a crucial role in the military campaigns of the 19th century.
- Each impi was led by a commander who reported to the king.
- The strength of the impis made them formidable opponents in battle.