SAN JUAN – More than a dozen words long used in Bermuda and across the Caribbean got an official nod on Wednesday from the Oxford English Dictionary.
First in line is “bimpert,” a Bermudian word of unknown origin that describes a stupid or foolish person. Locals often use it in the phrase: “A bimpert is justah wuffless bye,” meaning an idiot is just a worthless boy. This showcases the rich tapestry of language in Bermuda, where unique expressions reflect the culture.
Another colorful addition is “hornerman,” used in Trinidad and Tobago since 1975. This term refers to an unfaithful man or someone having an affair with another’s partner, highlighting social dynamics in relationships across the Caribbean.
If someone discovers such infidelities, they might “get on,” meaning to have an emotional outburst, or “cut someone’s tail,” which means to beat someone. These expressions reflect the passionate nature of Caribbean culture.
Depending on the fallout from such situations, a woman might need “vex money,” which refers to money saved for emergencies or unexpected situations. This term captures the practicality and resilience of Caribbean women.
Among other intriguing words is “jablesse,” defined as a malevolent shape-shifting female spirit with one cloven hoof. According to folklore, she assumes the form of a beautiful woman at night to lure men to their demise, adding a mystical element to Caribbean storytelling. The term comes from “diablesse,” the French word for female demon.
Another supernatural entry is “douen,” typically depicted as short with backward-pointing feet, believed to be the spirit of a child who died unbaptized. This spirit is said to lure children into the forest, showcasing the rich folklore that permeates Caribbean culture.
Several food-related words also made the list this year. “Shadeesh” refers to chorizo in Bermuda, while “sugar cake” is a delicious treat made from grated coconut, sugar, and spices. “Peanut punch,” a beloved beverage made with peanuts or peanut butter, milk, and spices, is a favorite in many Caribbean homes.
In the Caribbean, you might enjoy a peanut punch with your “nana” or “nani,” terms used for maternal grandparents. In Bermuda, you would share it with a “hamma,” or friend. These terms illustrate the importance of family and friendship in Caribbean life.
The final Caribbean English words added this year include “Trinbagonian,” which describes people from Trinidad and Tobago, and “canboulay,” referring to Carnival festivities in Trinidad during the 1800s that celebrated the emancipation of slaves. This term is derived from a 1700s harvest festival that faced repression, leading to riots that are reenacted today to mark the start of Carnival.
The Oxford English Dictionary contains around 500,000 words and phrases, detailing the history of language, some dating back to the 11th century. The inclusion of these Caribbean terms highlights the region’s rich linguistic heritage and cultural diversity.
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