mustat

Mustat is a Finnish word that functions as the plural form of the adjective musta, meaning "black." It is used to describe color in plural nouns or to refer to items that are black. In ordinary use, mustat describes objects that are black in color, for example mustat autot (black cars) or mustat takit (black jackets). In Finnish, adjectives agree with the nouns they modify in number and case, so the form of musta changes with the noun's case; the nominative plural is mustat, the partitive plural is mustia, and the genitive plural is mustien, among other forms.

The word can also be used as a substantive in some contexts to mean "the blacks." This usage is rare and may be considered outdated or offensive when referring to people; more precise and respectful language is recommended, such as tummaihoiset or mustaihoiset, or simply specifying nationality or ethnicity when relevant.

Etymology: from Finnish musta "black," derived from Proto-Finnic roots.