Traditional
Still common
Definition
Baby kangaroo - still in the pouch.
Example Sentence
"The joey poked its head out of the pouch."
Where "Joey" Comes From
Believed to come from an Aboriginal language word for a young animal, adopted by early European settlers to describe baby kangaroos and later extended to other marsupial young.
It's become the standard term used in wildlife care, zoos, and everyday conversation across Australia.
How Aussies Actually Use It
Used affectionately for any baby kangaroo or wallaby still in or near the pouch — "the joey poked its head out of the pouch" is a familiar, endearing sight for many Australians.
Wildlife carers and rescue organisations use the term constantly, especially after bushfires when orphaned joeys often need hand-rearing.
🎓 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 →