mata-mata

/ ˈmataˈmata /

noun

1. (in Malaysia) a former name for police

Word History and Origins

Origin of mata-mata¹

from Malay, reduplicated plural of mata eye

Example Sentences

There was a policeman watching in the street— Ada mata-mata saorang men-jaga di jalan.

From Project Gutenberg

The policeman chased him down to the river-bank— Mata-mata kejar juga sampei ka-tepi sungei.

From Project Gutenberg

The rare and hideous mata-mata of South America will make you a good meal, and afterward bring you in $25 in hard cash.

From Project Gutenberg