The epithet "Ratta", it is also claimed is a Kannada word from which the word "Rashtrakuta" has been derived. The use of the word "Rattagudlu" (meaning an office) has been found in inscriptions from present day Andhra Pradesh dated prior to the 8th century indicating it was a South Indian word. From the Deoli plates and Karhad records it is argued there was a prince called Ratta and his son was called Rashtrakuta. Hence it has been argued the Rashtrakutas were of Kannada origin. It is also said the term "Rashtra" means "kingdom" and "Kuta" means "lofty" or "Rashtra" means province and "Kuta" means chieftain.