What is the etymology of "banana"?

Answer 1

Etymology
From the Wolof banäna, through the Spanish and Portuguese, Mandingo, and Fulani

Answer 2

Etymology: Spanish or Portuguese; Spanish, from Portuguese, of African origin; akin to Wolof banäna banana

Answer 3

1597, borrowed by Sp. or Port. from a W. African word, possibly Wolof banana. The plant introduced to the New World from Africa, 1516. Banana republic is from 1935. Bananas in the slang sense of "nuts" is first recorded 1935. Top banana, second banana, etc. are 1950s, from show business slang use of banana for "comedian, especially in a burlesque show." Banana split first attested 1920.