Etymology

Origin disputed. Compare Aromanian mãndzu, Meglenitic mǫndz; possibly from or related and cognate to Albanian (Gheg) mâz (compare standard mëz and Old Albanian manz) through the substratum, or of Illyrian origin. Compare the Thracian word mezena, "horse", and Messapian Menzana, a horse deity. Compare also Italian manzo, probably ultimately from the same source.