How Do You Spell MUMBO JUMBO?

Pronunciation: [mˈʌmbə͡ʊ d͡ʒˈʌmbə͡ʊ] (IPA)

The phrase "mumbo jumbo" is often used to describe confusing or meaningless language. It is spelled with two syllables, with the stress on the first: /ˈmʌmbəʊ ˈdʒʌmbəʊ/. The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound, as in "cup", and the "o" in the second syllable is pronounced with a long "o" sound, as in "go". The "j" in "jumbo" is pronounced as a "dzh" sound, like the "j" in "jazz". The word likely has African roots, with the first recorded use in the early 1700s.

MUMBO JUMBO Meaning and Definition

1. Mumbo jumbo is a term used to refer to confusing, unintelligible, or nonsensical speech or writing. It can also be used to describe rituals, beliefs, or practices that are perceived as irrational or without any logical basis. The term is often used in a dismissive or critical manner to convey a sense of frustration or disbelief towards complex or convoluted explanations.

   Originating from West African languages, particularly the Mandinka language, it was originally used to describe a masked dancer who would engage in elaborate and incomprehensible speeches during religious ceremonies. Over time, it has evolved to become a metaphor for any language or discourse that is difficult to understand or lacks substance.

   Today, the term "mumbo jumbo" has found broader usage to describe a wide range of topics or situations. It can refer to bureaucratic jargon, pseudoscientific claims, mystical or supernatural beliefs, or even excessive technical language. Its connotation often implies a disdain for obfuscation or verbal obliqueness, urging for clarity and straightforwardness in communication.

   Overall, "mumbo jumbo" serves as a contemporary idiom to express skepticism, confusion, or frustration towards obscure, confusing, or nonsensical language, ideas, or practices.

Common Misspellings for MUMBO JUMBO

• numbo jumbo
• kumbo jumbo
• jumbo jumbo
• mymbo jumbo
• mhmbo jumbo
• mjmbo jumbo
• mimbo jumbo
• m8mbo jumbo
• m7mbo jumbo
• munbo jumbo
• mukbo jumbo
• mujbo jumbo
• mumvo jumbo
• mumno jumbo
• mumho jumbo
• mumgo jumbo
• mumbi jumbo
• mumbk jumbo
• mumbl jumbo
• mumbo jumbho

Etymology of MUMBO JUMBO

The origin of the phrase "mumbo jumbo" is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have derived from the Mandingo language spoken in West Africa. In Mandingo, "mambo" means a masked dancer, and "jambo" means a ghost or spirit. The combination of these words likely led to the creation of the phrase "mumbo jumbo" in English. Over time, it came to refer to unintelligible or meaningless language or rituals. The term gained prominence during the 18th and 19th centuries, when European explorers encountered various African cultures and viewed their rituals and beliefs as strange or incomprehensible.

Idioms with the word MUMBO JUMBO

• mumbo jumbo Mumbo jumbo refers to language or rituals that are confusing, meaningless, or intended to deceive or obscure meaning.