DINKUM Meaning and
Definition
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Dinkum is an Australian and New Zealand slang term that is often used to describe something as genuine, authentic, or of high quality. The word originated in the 19th century and has since become a popular part of the local vocabulary in both countries.
The term "dinkum" can be used to refer to a wide range of things, including people, products, experiences, or even just a general sense of honesty or truthfulness. It is often used in a positive context to highlight something that is considered to be the real deal or true to its nature.
For example, if someone is described as a "dinkum bloke," it means that they are seen as a genuine and trustworthy person. Alternatively, if a product is referred to as "dinkum," it means that it is believed to be of excellent quality and worth its value.
The word is also commonly used in phrases such as "fair dinkum" or "true dinkum" to emphasize the authenticity or truthfulness of a statement or situation. It is a way to express that something is honest, sincere, and without any deception or falsehood.
In summary, "dinkum" is a slang term used in Australia and New Zealand to describe something as genuine, authentic, or of high quality. It is often associated with a sense of honesty, trustworthiness, and truthfulness.
Common Misspellings for DINKUM
- sinkum
- xinkum
- cinkum
- finkum
- rinkum
- einkum
- dunkum
- djnkum
- dknkum
- donkum
- d9nkum
- d8nkum
- dibkum
- dimkum
- dijkum
- dihkum
- dinlum
- dinoum
- dinkym
- dinkhm
Etymology of DINKUM
The word "dinkum" is believed to have originated in Australia in the late 19th century. Its precise etymology is not entirely clear, but there are a few theories about its origins.
One theory suggests that "dinkum" may have derived from the Cantonese word "Ding kam" or "Ding gam" (定金), which means "a deposit" or "a true gold". During the Australian gold rush in the 1850s, many Chinese immigrants arrived in the country, and it is possible that the term entered the local Australian English vocabulary through their influence.
Another theory suggests that "dinkum" may have evolved from the word "dinky-di", which was originally used in British dialects to mean "genuine" or "reliable". When the word was brought to Australia, it underwent some changes in pronunciation and eventually became "dinkum".
Idioms with the word DINKUM
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fair dinkum
The idiom "fair dinkum" is an Australian expression that means something is genuine, authentic, or true. It is often used to emphasize sincerity or truthfulness.
