Wau
/wɑː/noun
A traditional Malaysian kite, often elaborately decorated and shaped like a crescent or leaf.
Did you know?The best-known wau bulan, or “moon kite,” can reach roughly two meters in height and is traditionally associated with Malaysian cultural identity, especially in Kelantan.
Etymological Timeline
Early Malay
Malay
wau
“A traditional kite; the precise deeper origin of the term is uncertain.”
Classical Malay
Malay
wau
“A kite used in traditional recreation and cultural display.”
19th–20th Century
Malay
wau bulan
““Moon kite,” referring to the distinctive crescent-shaped Malaysian kite.”
Modern English
English
wau
“A Malaysian kite, especially one of the large decorated traditional forms.”