Bule (Indonesian: [ˈbule]) is an Indonesian word for people of non-Indonesian descent, especially people of European descent (' white ', ' Caucasian ').

The meaning and use of the word bule and various expatriate reactions to its use in popular Indonesian culture.

“Bule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bule. Accessed 11 Dec. 2025.

Dec 5, 2025 · Adjective bule (comparative lebih bule, superlative paling bule) (colloquial or possibly dated) albino (having albinism)

Feb 8, 2025 · The word bule, however, has a more curious origin. Linguistic research suggests that bule comes from bulai, a term for animals or people with albinism. In rural Indonesia, kerbau albino …

Oct 6, 2025 · Even though many think “bule” only means white-skinned people, in reality, it’s used broadly. Some Indonesians with lighter skin tones are even jokingly called “bule” by their friends! …

Bule is a term used in Indonesian slang to refer to a foreigner, specifically a caucasian or white person. The term is often used informally and can have varying connotations depending on the context.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Bule is ranked #98982 in terms of the most common surnames in America. The Bule surname appeared 183 times in the 2010 census and if you were to sample …

“Bule” is a slang term in Indonesian and Balinese languages that refers to foreigners, particularly those of Western or Caucasian descent. While its exact origins remain unclear, the word is thought to have …

Jun 26, 2023 · The word ‘bule’ follows you around Indonesia. There is no equivalent in English. In the simplest way, ‘bule’ means foreigner.