mumbo jumbo

noun mum·bo jum·bo \ˌməm-bō-ˈjəm-(ˌ)bō\

: confusing or meaningless words or activity

Full Definition of MUMBO JUMBO

: an object of superstitious homage and fear

a : a complicated often ritualistic observance with elaborate trappings

b : complicated activity or language usually intended to obscure and confuse

: unnecessarily involved and incomprehensible language : gibberish

: language, behavior, or beliefs based on superstition

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Mumbo Jumbo, a masked figure among Mandingo peoples of western Africa

First Known Use: 1738

Synonyms: abracadabra, babble, blabber, burble, double Dutch, double-talk, drivel, gabble, gibber, jabber, jabberwocky, gibberish, nonsense, prattle, slobber

Next Word in the Dictionary: mummerPrevious Word in the Dictionary: mumblety–pegAll Words Near: mumbo jumbo

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