Correct spelling for the English word "Arubian" is [aɹˈuːbi͡ən], [aɹˈuːbiən], [a_ɹ_ˈuː_b_iə_n] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Arubian is an adjective that refers to or relates to the Caribbean island of Aruba, its people, culture, or anything associated with it. Aruba is a constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and is located in the southern Caribbean Sea, lying about 29 kilometers off the coast of Venezuela.
When used to describe the people of Aruba, the term Arubian denotes the nationality or citizenship of someone from Aruba. Arubians are known for their warmth, friendliness, and vibrant culture. The population of Aruba is a diverse mix of different ethnic backgrounds, including descendants of the original indigenous Arawak people, as well as Spanish, Dutch, African, and other European influences. Arubians are often bilingual, speaking both Papiamento (a Creole language) and either Dutch, English, or Spanish.
In a broader sense, the term Arubian can also encompass aspects such as the dialect, cuisine, music, and traditional customs of Aruba. Arubian cuisine, for example, is characterized by a fusion of flavors from various cultures, incorporating influences from Spanish, Dutch, and indigenous cooking techniques. The music of Aruba, such as the lively folk dances and rhythms like tumba and calypso, also fall under the Arubian cultural umbrella.
Overall, Arubian encompasses the distinct and unique characteristics of the island, its people, and its culture that sets it apart within the Caribbean region.
The word "Arubian" is derived from the name of the Caribbean island of Aruba. Aruba itself is a Spanish variant of the indigenous Arawak word "Oro Hubo,” meaning "shell island". The indigenous Arawak people originally inhabited the island. Over time, various influences from Spanish, Dutch, English, and Portuguese languages have shaped the island's culture and language, resulting in the term "Arubian" being used to describe things related to Aruba or its people.