The term "agar-agar" is derived from the Malay language, where it simply means "jelly" or "gelatin". The name reflects the substance's jelly-like properties. During the 19th century, Chinese migrants introduced agar, originally a Japanese product, to Malaysia and adopted the existing Malay term. Therefore, the repetition isn't a redundancy, but rather reflects the origin and meaning of the word itself. The use of "agar-agar" is a direct borrowing from the Malay language, making it a descriptive and culturally relevant name for this seaweed-derived gelling agent.
The Malay Origin of "Agar-Agar"
Several sources corroborate this explanation:
- Malaysian Origin: The word "agar-agar" originates from the Malay language, directly describing the jelly-like nature of the substance. Global Bioingredients and Quora both confirm this.
- Chinese Migration and Adoption: The spread of the term is linked to the adoption of the Malay word by Chinese migrants in Malaysia during the 19th century. Global Bioingredients and Hispanagar highlight this aspect.
- Meaning and Description: The term accurately reflects the product's properties, serving as a concise and descriptive name. Reddit and Wikipedia reinforce the "jelly" or "gelatin" meaning.
Why Not Just "Agar"?
The use of "agar-agar" is not simply redundant; it maintains the original Malay terminology and cultural context in which it was adopted and disseminated globally. While "agar" is now commonly used as a shortened form, "agar-agar" retains its historical linguistic roots and its descriptive accuracy.
