bunya bunya

noun

bun·​ya bun·​ya
¦bənyə¦bənyə
variants or bunya or bunya pine
plural -s
: an Australian coniferous tree (Araucaria bidwillii) bearing seeds about two inches long which have the flavor of roasted chestnuts when ripe and are a staple food of the aborigines among whom the tree is hereditary property and is protected by law

Word History

Etymology

Australian bunya bunya, bunya, perhaps from bunya shade

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

Dictionary Entries Near bunya bunya

Cite this Entry

“Bunya bunya.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bunya%20bunya. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!