walkabout
walkabout Lexical Profile
walkabout Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Australian A traditional journey on foot undertaken by an Aboriginal Australian in order to live in the traditional manner and maintain spiritual and cultural connections to the land and ancestors.
"The documentary explored the deep spiritual significance of the traditional walkabout across the outback."
A wandering journey on foot or an extended period of traveling from place to place away from one's usual routine.
"After graduating from college, he went on a six-month walkabout through South America."
British An informal stroll among a crowd conducted by a visiting dignitary, monarch, or politician to meet and talk with members of the public.
"The prime minister greeted local shopkeepers during an impromptu walkabout in the town square."
Word Nuance & Usage
When referring to Indigenous Australians, the phrase 'go walkabout' can carry offensive or stereotypical connotations if used to suggest irresponsibility or unreliability; it should be used respectfully in reference to the traditional cultural rite.
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in Australian Pidgin in the early 19th century from the English words 'walk' and 'about' to describe the traditional spiritual and ceremonial journeys of Aboriginal Australians.