Indonesian · Nature & Environment
gunung
Mountain; volcano
Definition
A very high hill; Indonesia has over a hundred volcanoes.
Example
Gunung Bromo terkenal di dunia.
Mount Bromo is famous worldwide.
Etymology
The term 'gunung' originates from Proto-Malayic and has cognates in other Austronesian languages, emphasizing its long-standing significance in describing elevated landforms. It has been consistently used to refer to mountains or volcanoes in the Indonesian context.
How & Where It’s Used
'Gunung' is used in both formal and informal registers across spoken and written Indonesian, often reflecting the cultural respect for mountains as sacred entities, especially in Java and Bali.
Literary Heritage
'Gunung' is prevalent in various Indonesian poems and songs, often representing strength and spirituality, as seen in works by poets like Sapardi Djoko Damono.