"Kumbaya" is a term that originally comes from the song "Kumbaya, My Lord," which has its roots in African American spiritual music. The phrase literally translates to "come by here" in Gullah, a creole language spoken in the coastal regions of South Carolina and Georgia. Over time, "kumbaya" has come to symbolize a sense of togetherness, community, and the longing for peace and harmony. It can also be used somewhat sarcastically to refer to overly idealistic or naïve sentiments about unity.
The word "kumbaya" is derived from the Gullah phrase "come by here," which became popular in the 20th century due to the folk song that carries the same title. This song was often sung around campfires or during gatherings, reinforcing the themes of togetherness and community.