kangaroo etymology

Etymology:

The word "kangaroo" originates from the Guugu Yimithirr language of the Aboriginal people in Australia.

Meaning and Origin:

  • Guugu Yimithirr word: gangurru or gangurruu, meaning "large jumping animal"
  • Adopted into English: Mid-18th century
  • Initial usage: By Captain James Cook and his crew during their expedition to Australia in 1770

Cook and his crew first encountered kangaroos in what is now the Cooktown area of Queensland. They adopted the Guugu Yimithirr word "gangurru" to describe these unusual animals, and it has since become the widely accepted name for all species of kangaroos.

Other Linguistic Variations:

Over time, the word "kangaroo" has undergone several linguistic variations:

  • Yugambeh language (Australia): Gangurru
  • Wiradjuri language (Australia): Gangaroo
  • Yuwaalaraay language (Australia): Ganguru
  • Yolŋu languages (Australia): Maki
  • Modern English spelling: Kangaroo

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