Pronunciation: ˌ m ə m-b ō - ' j ə m-( ˌ )b ō
Function: noun
Etymology: Mumbo Jumbo, a masked figure among Mandingo peoples of western Africa
Date: 1738
1 : an object of superstitious homage and fear
2 a : a complicated often ritualistic observance with elaborate trappings b : complicated activity or language usually intended to obscure and confuse
3 : unnecessarily involved and incomprehensible language : GIBBERISH
4 : language, behavior, or beliefs based on superstition