mulayi
The English word "beautiful" is translated to Luhya as mulayi.
mulayi is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is attractive.
Meaning: attractive (adj)
Did you know?
- In certain Western Kenyan dialects, the nuance of mulayi can shift from 'attractive' to 'skilled' or 'capable'. This links physical grace with functional excellence.
- In Luhya, calling someone mulayi is often a way of complimenting their moral integrity. To be 'beautiful' is often synonymous with being a 'good' person in a community sense.
- The word mulayi belongs to a complex system of noun classes. This means the word 'beautiful' is actually a mathematical match to the noun it follows, requiring different starting letters for different groups of objects.
Examples in context
- Omulusi mulayi.A beautiful woman.
- Omwana mulayi muno.A very beautiful child.
Example conversation
Naliaka and Wafula are looking at a flower garden.
- NaliakaRora makhulu aya, ni mulayi!Look at these flowers, they are beautiful!
- WafulaEe, ni mulayi mno Naliaka.Yes, they are very beautiful, Naliaka.
- NaliakaNdienda khulala khulia.I want to stay there.
- WafulaKhulale, kuli khulayi.Let's stay, it is beautiful.
