Bonza

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈbɒnzə/

Definitions

1. Describes something that is very good, impressive, or of high quality in informal usage
2. Used to express that an object, event, or performance is outstanding or superior in nature
3. Indicates a person or thing is exceptional or top-notch, often as a compliment in casual speech

Etymology: Australian slang has a habit of producing words whose origins nobody can pin down, and "bonza" is a prime example. It first appears in use in the 1890s, but where it came from remains unsettled. The leading candidate, argued by lexicographer James Lambert in 2020, links it to "boncer," a word for a large marble, and to "bouncer," meaning something prodigiously large. On that view, a top-notch thing is one that is, literally, a big one. Several other explanations have been proposed and set aside. The idea that it comes from the bonanza of American mining fame, or from French "bon" meaning "good," has been judged unsupported by the evidence. Some of the more fanciful suggestions include a "born star," the Japanese "banzai" (a cheer meaning "long live"), and a link to "bonnie." None has won general acceptance.

Synonyms: excellent, great, fantastic

Antonyms: terrible, poor