The Oxford English Dictionary (OED) has added several uniquely Sri Lankan words to its June 2025 update, marking a significant recognition of the island’s linguistic and cultural identity on the global stage.
Among the new entries is “asweddumize”, meaning to prepare land for paddy cultivation—a word with roots in Sinhala, long used in Sri Lankan agriculture and land reform discourse. First documented in 1857, it was re-evaluated and finally added after decades of lobbying by local academics.
Another standout addition is “kottu roti”, the beloved street food dish of chopped roti, meat, vegetables, and spices, known for its sizzling preparation and rhythmic chopping sound.
The OED also recognizes the Sinhala-origin “mallung”, a lightly-cooked shredded greens dish mixed with coconut and spices, and “kiribath”, coconut milk rice traditionally eaten during Sinhala and Hindu New Year.
In recognition of Sri Lanka’s cultural celebrations, the dictionary now features “Avurudu”, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year observed in April, marked by traditional food, rituals, and games
Also included are “watalappam”, a Muslim festive dessert made of coconut milk, jaggery, and spices; “baila”, a genre of uptempo music with Portuguese influence; and “papare”, a lively brass-based music style often heard at cricket matches. (Newswire)
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