A Singlish and Malay-origin word used in Singapore and Malaysia to refer to a transgender woman or effeminate man, broadly equivalent to 'ladyboy.' The term originates from Malay and can carry either neutral descriptive or derogatory weight depending on tone and context. In Singapore's LGBTQ+ communities, it is sometimes used self-referentially. Outsiders should approach with care — intent and social context determine whether the word is affectionate, clinical, or offensive.
The documentary featured several pondan performers who had been working in Singapore's cabaret scene for decades.
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(Singapore, Singlish) , ladyboy.
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Regional slang from around the English-speaking world — British, Australian, Irish, Caribbean, Nigerian, Filipino, AAVE, and the hyphenated-English dialects that make the internet sound local.
See all Regional & Other slang on Slangora.