wayang

noun

wa·​yang

variants or less commonly wajang

ˈwäˌyäŋ

plural -s

: an Indonesian and especially Javanese dramatic representation of mythological events in a puppet shadow play or by human dancers

Word History

Etymology

Javanese wayang, literally, shadow

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