alibangbang
alibangbáng with stress marks
butterfly; butterfly tree
Usage Note
Alibangbang refers both to the butterfly insect and to the butterfly tree (Bauhinia purpurea), a flowering tree with distinctively butterfly-shaped leaves common across the Philippines. Children often use the word for the insect in songs and games, while the tree is a recognizable fixture in yards and roadsides.
Examples
" May alibangbang sa bulaklak. "
Natural Translation
There is a butterfly on the flower.
Literal Translation
Has butterfly on-the flower.
" Lumilipad ang maraming alibangbang sa hardin ngayong tag-sibol. "
Natural Translation
Many butterflies are flying in the garden this spring.
Literal Translation
Flying the many butterflies in-the garden this spring.
" Naaalala ko pa noong bata kami, hinahabol namin ang mga alibangbang sa likod-bahay tuwing umaga. "
Natural Translation
I still remember when we were kids, we used to chase the butterflies in the backyard every morning.
Literal Translation
Remember I still when child we, chased we the butterflies at backyard every morning.
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