kili-kili
The English word 'armpit' is kili-kili in Tagalog.
kili-kili is used to refer to the cavity located beneath the junction of the arm and the shoulder.
Meaning: the cavity beneath the junction of the arm and shoulder (noun)
Did you know?
- The word kili-kili sounds very similar to the Tagalog word kiliti, which means 'tickle'. This phonetic similarity often links the two concepts in playful language and children's games.
- In Filipino culture, the kili-kili is often the subject of jokes regarding 'body odor' or 'amoy pawis', which is a common social anxiety in the humid climate.
- The word kili-kili is a reduplicated word, a common pattern in Tagalog where a root is repeated to create a new meaning or intensify a concept.
Examples in context
- Mabango ang kili-kili niya.Her armpit smells good.
- Kumati ang kili-kili ko.My armpit is itchy.
- May pawis sa kili-kili niya.There is sweat in his armpit.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about hygiene while getting ready.
- ChristinaRicardo, bakit ang lagkit ng kili-kili mo?Ricardo, why is your armpit so sticky?
- RicardoAng init kasi, Christina.It is because it is hot, Christina.
- ChristinaMag-deodorant ka para hindi amoy kili-kili.Use deodorant so you don't smell like armpits.
- RicardoSige, gagawin ko na.Okay, I will do it now.
