Early 1800s
Still common
Definition
A large native Australian bird known for its laughing call.
Example Sentence
"The kookaburras start up right at dawn."
Where "Kookaburra" Comes From
"Kookaburra" comes from the Wiradjuri Aboriginal word "guuguubarra", which imitates the bird's distinctive laughing call.
It's been the standard English name for the bird since the early 19th century.
How Aussies Actually Use It
It refers to the actual bird, a familiar and much-loved sound across Australian backyards and bushland.
Its call is so iconic it's often used in films as generic "jungle" background noise, despite being uniquely Australian.
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