Oxford English Dictionary serves up 'caribbean flavour' with 12 new words

The Oxford English Dictionary has just added a dash of Caribbean spice with 12 new words that showcase the region's vibrant culture and cuisine. Let's dive into the fascinating world of Caribbean English and explore these new additions.

• Bulla: A small, round, flat Jamaican cake made with flour, molasses, brown sugar, and spices like ginger, nutmeg, coconut, and pineapple. This sweet treat originates from the Spanish word "bollo," meaning bread roll.
• Buss Up Shut: A popular Trinidadian dish consisting of fried unleavened bread with a flaky texture, similar to paratha or roti. The name "buss up shut" comes from the Caribbean pronunciation of "bust-up shirt," likely due to the bread's resemblance to torn fabric.
• Cou-Cou: A traditional Caribbean dish made from cornmeal, okra, and butter, often served with steamed or fried fish. Don't forget the Cou-Cou Stick, a flat wooden paddle used to stir this delightful dish.
• Pholourie: An Indo-Caribbean snack consisting of fried flour balls, ground split peas, and spices, typically served with chutney. This word was first quoted in a 1936 song by Trinidadian calypso singer Rafael de Leon.
• Saltfish: A type of dried and salted fish, often used in Caribbean cuisine. With its origins dating back to 1558, saltfish is the oldest new word from the Caribbean added to the Oxford English Dictionary.

Beyond the plate

The dictionary's latest additions also explore the Caribbean's rich cultural heritage including the longest of the words "carry-go-bring-come," and it dates from 1825.

• Bobolee: A stuffed and dressed-up effigy, traditionally of Judas Iscariot, paraded through the streets and set up as a target for beating on Good Friday.
• Broughtupsy: A term that reflects good manners and courteous behaviour resulting from a proper upbringing.
• Carry-Go-Bring-Come: A phrase used to describe gossip or a person who spreads it. Variations include "bring-back-carry-come" and "bring-come-and-carry-go," all conveying the same meaning.
• Cry Long Water: An expression that means to cry a lot or insincerely.
• Jamaican Creole: A language spoken in Jamaica, reflecting the island's unique cultural identity.
• Tantie: A title of respect used to address an older woman, not necessarily an aunt.