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bunyip

(Australia, slang, obsolete) An imposter or con-man.

ˈbʌnjɪpCurrent208 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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Definitions

Australia
#1·Apr 26, 2026AUS

(Australia, slang, obsolete) An imposter or con-man.

According to the stories, the Bunyip comes in many different shapes and sizes—some are covered in feathers, while others have scales like a crocodile. Most Aboriginal drawings show the Bunyip with a tail like a horse, and flippers and tu…
For parents

Bunyip means: An imposter or con-man.. The word is mostly archaic or historical; you will only encounter it in old texts, period drama, or school history rather than current teen conversation. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

For ESL learners

bunyip means: An imposter or con-man.. Register: archaic, historical. Almost never used today; you will find it only in older texts, dictionaries of dialect, or historical writing. Avoid in active vocabulary. A common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; native speakers immediately notice when slang appears in formal contexts, so always check the surrounding register before producing it yourself.

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Australia
#2·Apr 26, 2026AUS

(Australia, cryptozoology, mythological creature) A mythical Australian monster, said to inhabit swamps and lagoons.

Heard in the wild
  • “A bunyip, because some people don't believe they exist and the people that do are obsessed with draining the swamp to clean them out.”

    — Bluesky· May 2026
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For specific readers

Bunyip means: An imposter or con-man.. The word is mostly archaic or historical; you will only encounter it in old texts, period drama, or school history rather than current teen conversation. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.

Why is this section here?

Slang is read by different audiences for very different reasons. The For parents view re-explains the term in plain, non-judgemental language so a caregiver can understand what their child means without needing the surrounding subculture. The For English learners view focuses on register (when it's safe to use), formal alternatives, and common mistakes — what a textbook won't teach you.

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