What does jamboree mean?
A jamboree is a large, lively gathering organized around entertainment, activities, or a shared theme. It may include performances, music, workshops, food stalls, and other attractions, giving it a festive and often informal character. The word is especially prominent in Scouting, where a jamboree is a substantial camp attended by Scouts from many groups, sometimes from several countries. Scout jamborees generally emphasize community, outdoor activity, international understanding, and participation, although their atmosphere can also include ceremonies, entertainment, and informal social events. In general use, calling an event a jamboree adds a sense of scale and excitement: “a major international jamboree” sounds more substantial than an ordinary party. The term can also appear in names of music events, cultural festivals, and community celebrations. Its historical sense connected it with a large bonfire, but today that meaning is uncommon. The word is recognized in both British and American English and has become especially associated with large international Scout gatherings.
nounA large gathering or festival, especially one combining entertainment, activities, and a shared theme. In Scouting, the word denotes a large organized camp for Scout groups from one or more countries.
- A large, festive gathering, especially one featuring music, performances, activities, or entertainment.
- A large gathering or camp attended by members of the Scout movement.
- Historically, a large bonfire or outdoor celebration.
"The annual music jamboree brought together bands and fans from across the country."
"Thousands of participants converged on the site for the international Scout jamboree."
"The charity hosted a summer jamboree with live music, workshops, and family activities."
The standard plural is jamborees.
"Several regional jamborees are scheduled for next summer."
Jamboree began as a word for a great bonfire before becoming the name of some of the world’s biggest youth gatherings.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jamboree come from?
Jamboree appeared in the early 20th century in American English, but the precise origin of the unusual coinage is uncertain. Its earliest uses referred to a large bonfire or outdoor celebration, and the word later broadened to mean a large gathering. Scouting adopted it in the 1930s for large camps, including the first World Scout Jamboree in 1935. Because its original derivation is not securely established, no definite cognates can safely be identified.
How jamboree is actually used
Outside Scouting, the word often suggests a lively, crowded, informal celebration. In British and American Scouting, it is an established formal term for a large camp involving groups from multiple units, often including participants from several countries.
Easily confused with jamboree
A jamboree is a large organized gathering, whereas a gambol is a playful running or dancing movement.