Pronunciation: [bˈɪlɐbˌɒŋ] (IPA) 
The word "billabong" is often misspelled due to its confusing spelling. It is pronounced as /ˈbɪləbɒŋ/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "bil" is a short "i" sound, followed by "la" and "bong", both with a short "o" sound. The double "l" in the middle can be challenging, but it is essential to spell it correctly. A "billabong" is an Australian term for a small lake or pool formed by a change in the course of a river.
A billabong refers to a geographical feature primarily found in Australia, commonly known as an oxbow lake or a stagnant pool of water. This term originates from the Wiradjuri language, an Indigenous Australian dialect. It describes a body of water formed when a river or stream changes its course, resulting in a horseshoe-shaped or meandering waterhole that is separated from the main waterway. Billabongs typically occur in low-lying areas or floodplains, where the water flow slows down or completely ceases due to slight changes in the topography or when a river changes its course.
These waterholes often serve as crucial habitats for various flora and fauna species, particularly during dry periods or droughts. They may contain abundant vegetation such as reeds, water lilies, or other aquatic plants. Additionally, billabongs are known to attract a diverse range of wildlife, including birds, fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
The term "billabong" has gained popularity beyond Australia due to its association with the internationally recognized Australian surf and lifestyle company called "Billabong." This brand name has helped popularize the term, specifically within the context of surfing and beach culture. Consequently, billabong has become synonymous with an environment connected to water-based recreational activities, outdoor leisure, and the carefree spirit often associated with surfing.
The word billabong originates from Australian English and is derived from the Wiradjuri or Dharug languages of the Indigenous Australians. In Wiradjuri, the word is bilabang or bilabong, while in Dharug, it is bilabang. The term refers to a stagnant or slow-moving waterhole, often formed as a side channel of a river or creek. As Australian English developed, the word billabong came to be widely used to describe such waterholes throughout the country. It gained global recognition thanks to its inclusion in the famous Australian song Waltzing Matilda.
