bobotie

noun

bo·​bo·​tie

bəˈbōtē,

¦bōbət¦ē

variants or bobotee

plural -s

: a dish of minced meat with curry and condiments especially popular in southern Africa

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Afrikaans boebooti, boboti, borrowed from Javanese Malay bobotok, bebotok, plural of botok "spiced, shredded coconut wrapped in banana leaves with fish or other ingredients and steamed," borrowed from Javanese boṭoʔ (spelled bothok)

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