Linguistically, this phenomena is known as loan words. This takes place when a new object is introduced to a people. There is no word for it, and so, the word is borrowed from the culture that introduced it. We decided to have a go at representing 5 borrowed words that are used everyday.
AOD is interpreting this at an exhibition called Fuse It. It's hosted by the Dutch Embassy at the DBU. Go check out the exhibition on November 14. Here's the Facebook event.
The most ubiquitous word for 'water' in Sinhala is 'watura', even though 'jalaya' is the Sinhalese word for it. We wonder how the Dutch version became so prominent. Let us know in the comments if you've got a hunch.
Indi isn't quite sure why this image features a motherboard on a rack. You may have heard this word being used by hawkers as they make their way down your street.
Yeah, everyone's favourite avurudu staple is actually a Dutch word.
While the Portuguese did come before the Dutch, their word for cannon seems to not have caught on. Or maybe we kicked the Portuguese cannon out in favour of the Dutch. History buffs, low down in the comments.
Though maakaral (snake beans) are more popular in Sri Lanka than bonchi, it's still a very popular word heard everyday at markets.
Learn more about loan words of Dutch origin from this wiki.
