1. A Hindu or Muslim title of respect for a man, used in India and South Asia; equivalent to Mr. or Sir.
Usage: historical; South Asian English
2. A clerk or official in India during the British colonial period, typically one who worked in an office or administrative role.
Usage: historical; South Asian English

Examples

• The babu greeted the visitor with great courtesy.
• During the Raj, many babús worked as clerks in government offices.
• The merchant addressed the official as Babu Sahib.
• The babu kept meticulous records of all transactions.
• In colonial India, a babu was often an educated man who served as an intermediary between British officials and local people.