Jumba

/ˈdʒʊmbə/ noun

Definition

In Swahili, means 'large' or 'big'; also refers to a style of African dance with rhythmic body movements (related to 'jumbaji' or big celebration).

Etymology

From Swahili 'jumba' meaning 'house' or 'large building,' with connections to words describing bigness and scale. The word entered English through colonial contact with East Africa and through popular culture references to African dance styles.

Kelly Says

The word 'jumba' became popular in English mainly through the Disney character Jumba Jookiba in 'Lilo & Stitch'—but the real Swahili word means something completely different, showing how pop culture can twist authentic words from other languages in funny ways.

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