ọmọ
/ɔ̄.mɔ̃̄/
The Yoruba word for "baby" is ọmọ.
ọmọ refers to a very young human being.
Meaning: very young human being (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has two syllables and is pronounced /ɔ̄.mɔ̃̄/.
Did you know?
- In Yoruba culture, the word ọmọ is often used in compound words to describe people's characters, such as ọmọlúàbí, which refers to a person of exemplary character and integrity.
- Yoruba has specific names and terms for ọmọ based on the order of birth and the day of the week they were born, which determines their 'Ori' or destiny.
- While an English speaker might use 'baby' as a term of endearment for a romantic partner, using ọmọ in that way in Yoruba would be highly unusual and potentially confusing.
Examples in context
- Ọmọ náà ń sùn.The baby is sleeping.
- Ọmọ yí kò tíì jẹun.This baby hasn't eaten yet.
- Mo rí ọmọ tuntun.I saw a new baby.
Example conversation
Olumide and Folake are visiting a new parent.
- OlumideṢe ọmọ naa ti jí?Is the baby awake?
- FolakeBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, ó ti jí.Yes, he is awake.
- OlumideỌmọ yẹn rẹwa gan.That baby is very beautiful.
- FolakeO ṣeun, Olumide.Thank you, Olumide.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry ọmọ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
