1800s
Still common
Definition
A native Australian wild dog.
Example Sentence
"They spotted a dingo near the campsite."
Where "Dingo" Comes From
"Dingo" comes from the Dharug Aboriginal language of the Sydney region, one of the earliest Aboriginal words adopted into Australian English.
It's remained the standard name for the species ever since European settlement.
How Aussies Actually Use It
It refers to the actual animal, found across mainland Australia, most famously on Fraser Island (K'gari).
It's occasionally used as a mild insult for someone seen as sneaky or untrustworthy.
🎓 Want to sound like a true Aussie?
Watch Down Under English on YouTube for real Australian pronunciation, slang lessons, and culture — taught by an Australian educator.
Watch on YouTube →