CultureAugust 17, 2026

bama

BAH-muh

Definition

A word from the Dyirbal language meaning 'people' or 'person,' often used by individuals to identify their linguistic or cultural group affiliation.

Etymology

Derived from the Dyirbal language of North Queensland, Australia, where it functions as a noun referring to people or the collective human group.

In the news

The word is used in the author's byline to identify her cultural identity as a Dyirbal gumbilbara bama, situating her personal and professional background in relation to the people of North Queensland.

The Quandamooka Arts and Culture Centre (Quampi) by Cox Architecture

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ArchitectureAu

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