Sumelang
/jv/Source Language: The language or dialect this term originates from (JV).Javanese•1 meaning found
Adjective
A word or phrase naming an attribute, added to or grammatically related to a noun to modify or describe it.
A state of anxiety, restlessness, or unease caused by worrying about something negative. The term describes deep and persistent unease, often without clear reason, commonly arising in emotional or psychological contexts.
gelisah
'gelisah' has a very close meaning to 'sumelang' but is more neutral and formal.
was-was
'was-was' is a regional variant often used alongside 'sumelang' in Javanese conversation.
gundah
Although more associated with sadness, 'gundah' also encompasses anxious feelings similar to 'sumelang'.
The term 'sumelang' originates from Old Javanese roots, particularly from the form sumelang, referring to a state of mental unrest and instability. It is derived from sama (together) and leng (careless, inattentive), forming a connotation of 'accumulated anxiety' or 'gathering unease'. In Javanese culture, this feeling is often connected to kawruh (inner knowledge) and wasa-wisu, a form of undefined fear. The word is widely used in East and Central Java, especially in casual, everyday conversation at the ngoko lugu level, as a natural expression of emotional states. Historically, 'sumelang' appears in classical Javanese literature such as kakawin and babad, though with a more philosophical meaning. In modern times, it has evolved into a colloquial idiom among Javanese youth, frequently used in social media and digital communication. The semantic shift from a philosophical concept to a common expression of daily anxiety illustrates a distinctive pattern of linguistic evolution in urban Javanese culture.
Manah kulo sumelang sanget nalika sampeyan mboten wangsul nganti wengi. (Hatiku sangat cemas ketika kamu tidak pulang-pulang hingga malam.)
Representative of real-world usage and contextual accuracy.
Slang evolves fast. If this word is used differently in your circle, add it here.
Definition: An interrogative phrase in krama inggil Javanese register meaning “how” or “in what manner”, used to politely inquire about the condition, state, or method of something with a high degree of respect.
Learn More