Bajau

noun

Ba·​jau

bəˈjau̇

plural Bajau or Bajaus

1

: a Malay people inhabiting coastal regions of Borneo and the southern Philippines

called also orang laut

2

: a member of the Bajau people

called also sea gypsy

Word History

First Known Use

1769, in the meaning defined at sense 1

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now