Oxford Languages has updated the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) to include several Malaysian loanwords. Among the new entries is “alamak,” an exclamation of surprise or dismay, with roots potentially linked to Arabic and Portuguese.
Contents
Mat Rempit’ and ‘Tapau’ Among Malaysian Words in Oxford Dictionary Update
Food terms like “ketupat,” “otak-otak,” and “nasi lemak” have also been added, reflecting Malay cuisine’s influence. Other new additions include “tapau” (takeaway), “mat rempit” (illegal motorcycle racers), and the Malaysian English adjective “terror,” meaning excellent or terrible.
The OED’s consultants for Malaysian loanwords, Prof Stefanie Pillai and Stuart Robson, highlighted the importance of preserving linguistic diversity through these updates.
Follow us on:
Read More News at #latestmalaysia #BusinessNews and #WorldFuture
