boodja
The Noongar word for land is boodja.
The word refers to the part of the Earth that is not covered by oceans or other bodies of water.
Meaning: part of Earth that is not covered by oceans or other bodies of water (noun)
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Wardandi dialect, boodja is used for land, while in the Bibbulman dialect, the form Boodjar is used.
Did you know?
- Because boodja is seen as a living entity, it is often spoken of with the same respect and kinship terms one might use for a family member.
- In Noongar culture, boodja is not something that can be owned by an individual, but rather something that people belong to.
- The concept of boodja is deeply tied to the seasonal cycles of the Noongar six seasons, as the land itself changes its identity throughout the year.
