eddo
The Somali word for aunt is eddo.
eddo is a noun used to refer to a parent's sister or a sister-in-law.
Meaning: a parent's sister or sister-in-law (noun)
Did you know?
- The distinction between eddo and abti reflects the patrilineal structure of Somali society, where the father's side of the family holds a specific ancestral status.
- If you were to use eddo to address a woman much older than yourself, it would function as a respectful honorific rather than a literal description of kinship.
- In Somali culture, an eddo is traditionally seen as a second mother and often plays a primary role in the upbringing and discipline of children.
Examples in context
- Eddo waxay joogtaa guriga.Aunt is at home.
- Eddo ayaa hadiyad ii keenay.Aunt brought me a gift.
Example conversation
Yasmin is telling Farah about her family visit.
- YasminFarah, ma xasuusataa eddo?Farah, do you remember my aunt?
- FarahHaa, waan xasuustaa. Sidee bay tahay?Yes, I remember her. How is she?
- YasminEddo waxay timid magaalada shalay.My aunt arrived in the city yesterday.
- FarahWaa war wanaagsan, waan salaamay.That is good news, give her my regards.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “aunt” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
