ambilanak

adjective

am·​bil·​anak

¦ambə¦länə(k)

: of or relating to a form of Malayan marriage especially in Sumatra where the husband in lieu of a bride-price enters the wife's family, has no property right in children or wife, and may be dismissed by her father

Word History

Etymology

Malay ambil-anak, from ambil taking over + anak child

First Known Use

1822, in the meaning defined above

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