11 Filipino Words Added to the Oxford English Dictionary in March 2025

Cultural Pride Meets Global Recognition as Unique Filipino Terms Make it Into the OED

In its March 2025 update, the prestigious Oxford English Dictionary (OED) welcomed 11 new Filipino words into its lexicon, marking another milestone in the global recognition of Philippine English. These additions reflect the richness and uniqueness of Filipino culture, language, and everyday life.

Why Do Some Words Become Untranslatable?

According to a commentary on the OED website, many words are considered "untranslatable" not because they are impossible to understand, but because there are no exact equivalents in other languages. The OED notes: “Often, when we talk about untranslatable words, what we are actually talking about are words that have been lexicalized in one language but not in others, which is what makes them particularly intriguing.”

This is why borrowing words across languages is common, especially in multilingual communities. In the Philippines, where English coexists with Filipino and other native tongues, such cross-linguistic exchanges happen naturally and frequently.

1. CR – A Common Necessity

Definition: A toilet; a lavatory; cf. comfort room n.
In the Philippines, “CR” stands for “comfort room,” a localized term for bathroom or toilet. While the phrase is rarely used outside the country, it has become a staple of Philippine English. Its inclusion in the OED acknowledges a term so deeply embedded in daily Filipino life.

2. Gigil – The Uncontainable Feeling

Definition (Noun): An intense feeling caused by anger, eagerness, or the pleasure of seeing something cute or adorable, often expressed through physical reactions like clenching hands or gritting teeth.
Definition (Adjective): Describing a person overwhelmed by such a feeling.
“Gigil” is one of those words Filipinos use all the time but is hard to translate perfectly. It's often felt when seeing a cute baby or pet — that irresistible urge to squeeze or pinch due to overwhelming affection. Its emotional complexity makes it a standout word.

3. Kababayan – Fellow Countryman

Definition: A fellow Filipino; also, someone from the same town or region. It also refers to a popular small, yellow muffin shaped like a salakot.
“Kababayan” reflects the strong sense of community and national identity among Filipinos. Whether abroad or at home, the word evokes camaraderie and belonging. Interestingly, it also doubles as the name of a familiar Filipino snack.

4. Lumpia – A Crispy Delight

Definition: A type of spring roll common in East and Southeast Asian cuisine, often filled with meat, seafood, or vegetables.
“Lumpia” has long been a favorite at Filipino gatherings and is one of the most well-known Filipino dishes globally. Its inclusion reflects how food can bridge cultural gaps and introduce local traditions to the world.

5. Salakot – A Symbol of Filipino Heritage

Definition: A lightweight, wide-brimmed hat traditionally worn by Filipino farmers.
The salakot is not just practical—it’s iconic. With its conical shape and historical significance, it symbolizes rural Filipino life and resilience. Its recognition in the OED underscores the importance of cultural attire.

6. Sando – Everyday Wear

Definition: A sleeveless undershirt or vest, often worn in hot weather.
“Sando” is a staple of casual wear in the Philippines. Whether worn at home or in public, it’s as common as the tropical climate that makes it necessary.

7. Thomasite – American Influence in Education

Definition: An American teacher in the Philippines during U.S. colonization, especially one from the group that arrived on the U.S. Army Transport Thomas in 1901.
The term “Thomasite” reflects a key chapter in Philippine history when American educators helped shape the country's public education system. Their legacy continues today, particularly in the widespread use of English in Filipino schools.

Thomasites and native girls, Manila, Philippines, 1902. Credit: John Tewell

8. Videoke – Filipino-Style Karaoke

Definition: A popular form of entertainment where individuals sing along to music videos with lyrics on-screen.
Videoke is karaoke with a Filipino twist. Found in homes, bars, and parties across the Philippines, it’s an essential part of Filipino leisure culture. Its formal entry into the OED cements its global cultural relevance.

9. Load – Mobile Credit

New definition added to existing word: Credit purchased for a pay-as-you-go mobile phone.
In the Philippines, “load” is a noun. People say, “I need to buy load,” meaning mobile phone credit. This unique usage evolved with the country's prepaid mobile system and has now earned global recognition.

10. Terror – The Strict Teacher

New definition added to existing word: Of a teacher: strict, harsh, demanding.
In Philippine English, calling someone a “terror teacher” doesn’t mean they’re scary in a horror-movie sense—it means they’re very strict or demanding. This local usage now finds a place in formal English records.

11. Pinoy – National Identity in a Word

Definition (Adjective): Of, belonging to, or relating to the Philippines or Filipinos.
“Pinoy” is more than a word—it’s an identity. It’s informal, affectionate, and widely used among Filipinos worldwide. Its inclusion as an adjective solidifies its place in modern English as a representation of Filipino pride.

A Cultural Milestone for Filipino English

The inclusion of these 11 Filipino words in the Oxford English Dictionary marks more than just linguistic recognition—it’s a celebration of Filipino culture, identity, and global influence. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, language evolves to reflect new realities. These words serve as a bridge between nations and a testament to the unique Filipino experience.

For Filipinos everywhere, these additions to the OED are a source of pride, showing that the world is listening—and learning—one word at a time.

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