'Angolan' originates from English formation based on the country name 'Angola,' itself from Portuguese 'Angola,' ultimately from Kimbundu 'ngola' (title meaning 'king' or 'ruler'), with the English suffix '-an' forming a demonym.

'Angola' entered European languages via Portuguese exploration; English then formed the demonym 'Angolan' by adding the suffix '-an' to 'Angola,' which yields the plural noun 'Angolans' for its people.

Initially, it meant 'of or relating to Angola' (adjective) and 'a native or inhabitant of Angola' (noun); these meanings remain the same today.