jejak

Jejak is an Indonesian noun that denotes a trace, imprint, footprint, or track left by something or someone. It can refer to physical evidence such as footprints, tire tracks, or markings on a surface, as well as to more abstract signs of past events. In everyday language, jejak is used for both tangible signs and figurative indications of history, time, or influence.

Etymology and usage notes: The term originates in the Indonesian language (and Malay) and is rooted in the idea of a mark left behind by movement. It commonly occurs in compounds and collocations, for example jejak kaki for footprints, jejak hewan for animal tracks, and jejak mobil or jejak ban for vehicle tire marks. The verb form mentjejakkan or menjajal can appear in phrases related to stepping or tracing, whereas menghapus jejak means to erase traces.

Applications and phrases: In physical contexts, jejak appears with surfaces and items that show evidence of passage, such as mud on the sole or tracks on sand. Figuratively, jejak extends to history and memory, as in jejak sejarah (historical traces) and jejak waktu (temporal traces). The term also forms modern phrases such as jejak digital, referring to an individual’s online footprint, and jejak karbon, used to describe carbon footprint. Other common expressions include jejak langkah and jejak kaki, emphasizing the trace left by a person’s path or journey.

See also: jejak kaki, jejak digital, jejak karbon. These related terms illustrate the broad use of jejak to describe remnants or signs left behind by movement, action, or presence.