How to Say “Love” in Shona

By Mae Cassandra • Updated October 1, 2026

rudo

The English word "love" is translated into Shona as rudo.

rudo is used to express the noun form of strong affection.

Meaning: strong affection (noun)

Did you know?

In Shona, the verb 'to love' is kuda, which is the exact same word used for 'to want' or 'to desire'.
To describe 'falling in love', Shona speakers often use phrases that suggest being captured or overwhelmed, rather than the English metaphor of 'falling'.
The term rudo is so central to Shona identity that it is a very popular given name for both girls and boys in Zimbabwe.

Examples in context

Rudo rwakanyanya.
Great love.
Munoda rudo rwechokwadi.
You need true love.

Example conversation

Ruvimbo and Kudzai are talking about their relationship.

Ruvimbo

Kudzai, ndine rudo rwakadzika newe.
Kudzai, I have a deep love for you.
Kudzai

Neniwo ndinokuda zvikuru, Ruvimbo.
I love you very much too, Ruvimbo.
Ruvimbo

Rudo rwedu rucharamba ruripo.
Our love will always be there.
Kudzai

Hongu, rudo rwedu haruperi.
Yes, our love never ends.

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About The Author

Mae Cassandra

Jambo! I'm Mae, a proud enthusiast of Swahili. I'm passionate about sharing this palette of words and cultural context, from "Africa" to "Yes" in Swahili. Apart from my love for linguistics, I'm a fruit-lover (Bananas and Mangos are my favorite!), travel bug, and an amateur metal sculptor. When I'm not teaching you how to say "Good Morning, My Love" or "I miss you" in Swahili, you'll find me catching my breath along the Kenyan coastline or savoring the sweetness of ice-cream with my husband. My love for African languages also led me to Shona, and I now write guides on how to say everyday words in Shona too. Karibu to join me on this exciting journey!

Mae CassandraHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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