In brief
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has recognized several unique South African expressions in its latest update, highlighting the linguistic diversity of the nation.
In a surprising move, the OED has added a variety of South African words to its lexicon, showcasing terms that reflect the country's vibrant culture. Among these are "Yoh," an expression indicating surprise, and "gatvol," which conveys frustration. Another inclusion is "tjoekie," a slang term for jail, while "seshweshwe" refers to a traditional printed cotton fabric. The term "makarapa," initially used for hard hats in construction, has become popularized among sports fans. Other words like "zol," for marijuana, and "moggy," describing irrational individuals, were also recognized. The inclusion of these words signifies the OED’s acknowledgment of the cultural significance of language and diversity, connecting South Africa to the global linguistics community. This expansion mirrors the trend of leveraging "untranslatable words" from diverse cultures, reflecting a rich infusion of global linguistic heritage. More details about the OED's updates can be found on their official website.
