In brief
The Oxford English Dictionary has added new South African words, reflecting the rich linguistic diversity of the country.
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) just got a vibrant makeover with a slew of South African slang and expressions! Words like "yoh," "gatvol," and "tjoekie" are now officially recognized, highlighting the country's unique linguistic flavor. These "untranslatable words" express feelings and cultural nuances that can be tricky to define in other languages. For instance, “yoh” dates back to 1855 and captures emotions like surprise or admiration, while “gatvol,” a term for frustration, finds its origins in Afrikaans. Other entries, such as “makarapa,” originally a hard hat, now signifies the colorful headgear worn by enthusiastic sports fans.This update also includes words from places like the Philippines and Ireland, demonstrating that language evolves and transcends borders. In a celebration of culture and expression, these additions to the OED not only honor South Africa's diverse languages but also enhance the richness of English itself! For the full list of words, check out the OED's website.
