corroboree

corroboree

A group of people performs a traditional corroboree around a central campfire at night.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • A ceremonial gathering: "corroboree" refers to a traditional Aboriginal Australian ceremony involving singing, dancing, and storytelling. It is a sacred or social event for Indigenous Australians, often featuring elaborate body paint, music, and rhythmic movements.
    • A festive assembly: In a broader sense, "corroboree" can mean any large, lively gathering or celebration, especially one with music and dance.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • The elders organized a corroboree to celebrate the harvest. (A traditional Aboriginal ceremony with dancing and singing.)
    • The community held a corroboree to welcome visitors from neighboring tribes. (A ceremonial gathering involving music and dance.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to hold a corroboree": to organize or participate in such a ceremony.

    • The tribe will hold a corroboree at sunset to honor their ancestors. (They will perform a traditional dance ceremony.)

  • "corroboree ground": a designated area where the ceremony takes place.

    • The dancers prepared the corroboree ground with sacred markings. (The ceremonial space was readied for the event.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Corroboree (verb, intransitive): to dance or perform in a corroboree.

    • The men will corroboree under the moonlight. (They will dance in the traditional ceremony.)

  • Corroboree frog (n): a small, brightly colored frog native to Australia, named for its striking patterns resembling body paint used in corroborees.

    • The corroboree frog is critically endangered. (A frog species with vivid markings.)
Synonyms
  • Ceremony: a formal event with ritual significance.
  • Festival: a celebration with music and dance.
  • Ritual: a set of actions performed in a prescribed order.
Related Idioms

  • "to have a corroboree": (informal, Australian) to have a noisy, lively party or argument.

    • The neighbors had a corroboree last night that kept everyone awake. (They had a loud, chaotic gathering.)

  • "corroboree of the mind": (rare, poetic) a chaotic or vivid mental experience.

    • His dreams were a corroboree of colors and sounds. (His dreams were a vivid, disordered mixture.)