polo
The Samoan word for 'balls' (slang for testicles) is polo.
In Samoan, polo is used as a slang term to refer to testicles.
Meaning: slang for testicles (noun)
Did you know?
- In many Pacific cultures, including Samoa, using such slang in the presence of elders or in formal settings is considered a significant breach of 'mamalu', or dignity and respect.
- While an English speaker might say someone has 'balls' to describe bravery, using polo in a similar way in Samoa would fail to convey that metaphorical meaning of courage.
- In Samoan, many body parts have highly formal, 'sacred' names used in traditional contexts, making the use of polo a sharp departure from respectful speech.
Example conversation
Sina and Tau are joking around during a break.
- SinaO ai lea e sili atu ana polo?Who do you think has bigger balls?
- TauO a'u lava, Sina!I do, Sina!
- SinaE leai se polo e sili atu nai lo lau.No balls are bigger than yours.
- TauFa'afetai lava!Thank you very much!