Terms of address in Shona derive from a multiplicity of sources, both modern and traditional. Proper names, nicknames, titles, pronouns and prefixes are commonly used. Emphasis is on the discussion of the type of names the Shona utilize, the contexts in which they are applied, their semantics and the circumstances that motivate their creation. The speaker and the addressee's relationship, cognitive, historical and ideological reality, determine the choice of names and other address variants. The choices also reflect very broad categories of social meaning. Address forms can, therefore, be screens upon which the Shona project their attitudes towards different aspects of their life. The author shows that the use of address forms and cultural values are closely interrelated. This article gives a socio-linguistic account of the synchronic patterns and diachronic change in address terms. Shifts over time in addressing patterns may provide a powerful indicator of profound societal shifts.
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