Question

Why is it called Mandarin?​

Answer 1

Mandarin is the Western name that was historically given to the Imperial Court officials by the Portuguese. The name referred not only to the people but also the language they spoke. But Mandarin is actually the Beijing dialect of the overall group of languages spoken in many parts of China.

Answer 2

mandarin noun [ C ] (OFFICIAL) UK disapproving a person who has a very important job in the government, and who is sometimes considered to be too powerful: It often seems that true power lies with the Civil Service mandarins, rather than MPs and cabinet ministers.