The Chase fans left baffled after bizarre Kiwi slang word question

Publish Date
Thursday, 4 January 2024, 8:02AM

A question on The Chase has got Kiwis talking...

During the episode, chaser Paul 'The Sinnerman' Sinha and the contestant were quizzed about the word "puckerooed".

Host Bradley Walsh asked: "Puckerooed is New Zealand slang for something that is what?

"A. Banned. B. Bawdy. C. Broken."

The question caught the eye of many Kiwis who took to social media to discuss the use of the word.

"How did that extremely niched colloquial example even make it to international TV? Even most kiwis won't know that. That whole sentence is 'puckerooed'," someone wrote.

The slang puckerooed originated from the late 19th century Māori word pakaru which means broken.

A number of people said they remember their elders using the term, but say it is no longer common.

"Oh heck, that's a saying from way back. I remember my parents using that," one wrote.

Another said: "Yes it has been around for years! Don't hear it that often now though."

However, a number of people indicated they'd never heard of it.

"I've heard of munted, but pretty sure I haven't heard puckerooed eh."

Another agreed saying: "Na bro that's wack. Looks Australian."

Others focused their attention at The Chase's spelling of 'puckerooed', with some claiming the show has spelt it incorrectly.

A viewer wrote: "Omg it's not meant to have 'rooed' on the end. it's pakaru, or pakarud. They spelt it like a Pakeha!"

Take your Radio, Podcasts and Music with you