chotda
The Chamorro word for banana is chotda.
chotda is used to refer to the fruit.
Meaning: fruit (noun)
Did you know?
- The word chotda belongs to the Austronesian language family. This connects the word to a vast network of languages stretching from Madagascar to Easter Island.
- While chotda is the fruit, the tree is called fihu. This distinction is a common feature in Chamorro where the plant and its product have entirely different names.
- The spelling of chotda relies on a phonetic system that was once heavily shaped by Spanish-style writing rules. This means the way you write the word is a historical record of Spanish colonial influence.
Example conversation
Manuel and Angelica are in the kitchen.
- ManuelAngelica, na'na i chotda?Angelica, is the banana sweet?
- AngelicaHå'ga, chotda na'na.Yes, the banana is sweet.
- ManuelGuma'åga'u na chotda.I want a banana.
- AngelicaKåno'on i chotda.Eat the banana.
