This March, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) officially added gigil to its growing list of Philippine English words. A term that captures the irresistible urge to pinch something adorable, gigil is deeply ingrained in Filipino culture, often used to express intense emotions of excitement or affection. Its inclusion in the OED is a testament to the growing recognition of the Filipino language on the global stage.
10 New Filipino Words in the OED
Alongside gigil, ten more Filipino words have made it to the dictionary, reflecting the deep cultural influence of the Filipino language. These words, commonly used in everyday conversations, highlight the diverse aspects of Filipino life, from food to fashion and traditions. Here are the latest additions:
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CR – Short for "comfort room," the commonly used Filipino term for a restroom or toilet.
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Kababayan – A term for a fellow Filipino or someone from the same hometown. It also refers to a small, sweet, muffin-like cake often enjoyed as a local delicacy.
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Lumpia – A type of spring roll, usually filled with minced meat, seafood, or vegetables, sometimes deep-fried, and served with a dipping sauce.
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Pinoy – A widely used informal term that refers to anything related to the Philippines or Filipinos, embodying national identity.
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Salakot – A traditional Filipino hat–dome or cone-shaped–worn by farmers and laborers for sun and rain protection.
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Sando – A sleeveless undershirt or vest, commonly worn in the Philippines, especially in hot weather.
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Thomasite – An American teacher sent to the Philippines during U.S. colonization to establish an English-based education system in the early 1900s.
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Videoke – A beloved form of karaoke entertainment where lyrics appear on a screen while a person sings along, popular in Filipino celebrations and gatherings.
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Load – Prepaid credit used for mobile phone services, an essential part of daily life for many Filipinos.
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Terror – A slang term referring to a strict or demanding teacher, often feared by students.
Growing Global Recognition
These additions join previously recognized Filipino words like kilig, barkada, and bakya. The increasing presence of Filipino words in the OED highlights the cultural impact of the language and its evolving influence in global communication. From everyday expressions to cultural traditions, these words showcase the richness and uniqueness of the Filipino language.
