Bumbaclot
/ BUM-ba-klaat /Content note: this page explains a vulgar word for language learners. It is offensive in Jamaica — understand it, but think twice before using it.
Quick answer: Bumbaclot (pronounced BUM-ba-klaat) is one of the strongest swear words in Jamaican Patois.
What does Bumbaclot mean?
Bumbaclot is one of the strongest curse words in Jamaican Patois. It is used as an exclamation of shock, anger or disbelief, and as an insult when aimed at a person. In Jamaica it is considered genuinely offensive — on the level of the worst English swear words — and it is not used in polite company, in front of elders or in church.
Where does Bumbaclot come from?
The word combines bumba (bottom or backside) and claat (cloth). Literally it refers to a cloth used on the bottom — historically, toilet or sanitary cloth — which is why it is so offensive. It belongs to a family of ‘-claat’ curses that includes rassclaat and bloodclaat.
How to use Bumbaclot
Outside Jamaica the word went viral through memes, music and social media, often as a funny way to show surprise. Many Jamaicans find that casual use jarring, because at home the word still carries its full weight. If you are not Jamaican, it is best to understand it rather than use it.
| Jamaican Patois | English |
|---|---|
| Bumbaclot! Yuh see wah happen? | (Expressing shock) Damn! Did you see what happened? |
| Lef mi alone, yuh bumbaclot! | (Insult — very offensive) Leave me alone, you ******! |
Other spellings
Because Patois is mostly spoken, spellings vary. You may also see: bumboclaat, bomboclat, bumbaclaat, bombaclot.
Related Patois words
Rassclaat · Bloodclot · Raas · Kiss mi neck
Frequently asked
Is bumbaclot a bad word?
Yes. It is one of the most offensive words in Jamaican Patois and is treated like the strongest English profanity.
What is a polite alternative?
Jamaicans say kiss mi neck, Lawd or rahtid to express surprise without swearing.
Look up more words in the Jamaican Patois Dictionary, or see Bumbaclot in the dictionary.