A Baba Malay Dictionary

A Baba Malay Dictionary : the first comprehensive compendium of Straits Chinese terms and expressions by William Gwee Thian Hock.

The Peranakan or Baba Chinese of Southeast Asia have a fascinating history and culture, and a uniquely colourful language. The Baba Malay vocabulary is a mixture of common Malay terms and Hokkien Chinese words, with added loan words from Portuguese, Dutch and English. It is distinct from the original Malay or Chinese (Hokkien) languages that influenced it.

This dictionary documents the vast storehouse of unusual words, phrases, idioms and expressions used by Baba Chinese communities in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and elsewhere. It aims to help younger Babas learn and maintain this unique language. An introduction to the language, a glossary and notes on cherki (a popular Baba game) are also included.