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New Oxford Dictionary additions for 2023! Is your Saffa slang knowledge up to date?

Updated: Dec 30, 2023


1.Ghoen: A shooting-marble.



2. Lightie: Young man; boy.



3. Lightning bird: Impundulu translated, Inyoni Yezulu meaning ‘Bird of the heavens.’


The Impundulu or Lightning Bird is a creature from the folklore of the Pondo, Zulu, and Xhosa people of South Africa. Known as "Inyoni Yezulu" in Zulu, which translates to "Bird of the Heavens," the Impundulu is a mythical bird associated with lightning, thunderstorms, and traditional witchcraft. It's often described as a large, black and white bird, sometimes with the ability to transform itself into a human-like figure.

In many tales, the Impundulu is said to summon thunder and lightning with its wings and talons, and it's believed to have supernatural powers. It serves as a familiar for witch doctors or witches, carrying out their bidding and causing harm to their enemies. The bird is often feared and respected in these cultures due to its powerful associations with the weather and magic.

Despite its fearsome reputation, the Lightning Bird is also seen as a symbol of natural forces and the spirit world, embodying the powerful, uncontrollable aspects of nature and the supernatural. The myths and stories about the Impundulu vary, but it remains a significant figure in the folklore of several South African cultures.



4. Skedonk: Dilapidated car.



5. Toppie: Elderly person.



6. Volksliedjie: Folk song.


A "Volksliedjie" is an Afrikaans term that translates to "folk song" in English. These are traditional songs that typically convey the stories, beliefs, and customs of a cultural or ethnic group, often passed down through generations orally. Folk songs are an integral part of many cultures' musical heritage and are known for their simplicity, emotional depth, and communal spirit.



7. Volkspele: Folk games; dance.



8. Volkswil: People; members of a particular group​​.


"Volkswil" is a term that might be used in contexts involving Germanic or Dutch languages, and it translates roughly to "the will of the people" or "people's will" in English. The term "Volk" refers to a people or nation, often with a strong sense of ethnic or cultural identity, while "wil" refers to will or desire.

In a broader sense, "Volkswil" refers to the collective will, wishes, or aspirations of the members of a particular group, community, or nation. It's often invoked in political, social, or cultural discussions to emphasize the importance of respecting and adhering to the desires and needs of the majority or the common populace.

In a democratic context, "Volkswil" might be understood as the driving force behind decisions made through democratic processes, such as elections or referendums, representing the consent or mandate given by the people. It can also be used to discuss cultural or societal norms and values that are widely held or cherished by a particular group.






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