The word "lascar" derives ultimately from "lashkar", the Persian word for "army." In Mughal and Urdu culture the word is used to describe a "swarm like formation in any army" ("lashkar"); however this word originates via Portuguese language . The Portuguese adapted this term to "lascarim", meaning Asian militiamen or seamen, specifically from any area east of the Cape of Good Hope. This means that Indian, Malay, Chinese and Japanese crewmen were covered by the Portuguese definition. The British of the East India Company initially described Indian lascars as 'Topazes', but later adopted the Portuguese name, calling them 'lascar'. Lascars served on British ships under "lascar agreements". These agreements allowed shipowners more control than was the case in ordinary articles of agreement. The sailors could be transferred from one ship to another and retained in service for up to three years at one time. The name "lascar" was also used to refer to Indian servants, typically engaged by British military officers.