text: The etymology of the common name Emu is uncertain , but is thought to have come from an Arabic word for large bird that was later used by Portuguese explorers to describe the related Cassowary in Australia and New Guinea .
simplified: The history of the common name , Emu , is not certain , but is thought to have come from an Arabic word for large bird . This word was later used by Portuguese explorers to describe the related Cassowary in New Guinea .