Muwah-muwuh
/jv/Source Language: The language or dialect this term originates from (JV).Definition & Context
AdjectiveAdjective
A word or phrase naming an attribute, added to or grammatically related to a noun to modify or describe it.
A state of extreme abundance or excess, surpassing reasonable limits in quantity or degree; used to describe conspicuous plenty in material possessions, clothing, food, or other aspects of life.
Synonyms & Variants
berlebihan
Exceeding reasonable limits.
berlimpah
Having a very large or excessive quantity.
lubèr
Non-standard or Javanese dialect form for 'meluber', meaning to overflow abundantly.
melimpah ruah
Very abundant and excessive, often to the point of overflowing or being uncontainable.
mewah
Excessive and expensive in every aspect, indicating striking luxury or prosperity.
Berlimpah-ruah
Formal Indonesian equivalent describing a state of extreme abundance.
Turah-turah
Javanese variant (ngoko) emphasizing leftovers or overflowing excess.
Usage Notes or Etymology
The word muwah-muwuh originates from Old Javanese vocabulary rooted in the concept of material abundance. Its varied-reduplication form (muwah-muwuh) follows a common Javanese linguistic pattern used to intensify superlative meaning, similar to constructions like wira-wiri or mubra-mubru. The term appears frequently in classical Javanese literary texts, including serat and babad, to depict luxury or excess in stark contrast to simplicity. Within Javanese cultural values, the word often carries a subtle moral undertone, implying that excessive abundance without gratitude or without heirs is ultimately considered futile and hollow.
Real-world Usage
Sandhangane akeh muwah-muwuh, nganti lemarine ora muat kabeh. (Pakaiannya berlimpah ruah sampai lemarinya tidak muat semua.)
English Translation
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
More Examples
Sajian mangane muwah-muwuh, kabeh tamu disuguh iwak pitik lan daging sapi. (Sajian makannya melimpah ruah, semua tamu disuguhi ayam dan daging sapi.)
The food spread was overflowing; every guest was served chicken and beef.