Macao
/məˈkaʊ/noun
A special administrative region of China on the southern coast, historically administered by Portugal.
Did you know?The traditional explanation links Macao to A-Ma, the Cantonese name of Mazu, a protective Chinese sea goddess worshipped by sailors, though scholars debate the exact origin.
Etymological Timeline
Before the 16th Century
Cantonese
A-Ma
“A title or name associated with Mazu, the Chinese goddess who protects sailors and fishermen.”
Before the 16th Century
Cantonese
A-Ma Temple
“A shrine dedicated to Mazu at the harbor later associated with Macao.”
1550s
Portuguese
Amacao
“Early Portuguese forms recorded for the settlement and harbor; the precise source remains disputed.”
16th Century
Portuguese
Macau / Macao
“Portuguese names for the Chinese trading port and colonial settlement.”
Modern English
English
Macao
“An English name for the Macao Special Administrative Region of China.”