dtlʼóoʼí
The English phrase "blue corn" is translated into Navajo as dtlʼóoʼí.
The term refers to a specific type of corn characterized by its bluish-colored grains.
Meaning: Corn with bluish grains (noun)
Did you know?
- Navajo tradition views different colors of corn, including dtlʼóoʼí, as representing the four cardinal directions and the balance of the natural world.
- The cultivation of dtlʼóoʼí is traditionally associated with the feminine principle in Navajo agriculture and creation stories.
- The color blue in the word dtlʼóoʼí often encompasses shades that an English speaker would describe as purple or deep indigo.
Example conversation
Michelle and Justin are looking at seeds in a garden.
- MichelleDtlʼóoʼí hádóó kʼééʼdóó?Where is the blue corn?
- JustinDtlʼóoʼí tʼáá bitoʼaaʼí.The blue corn is right over there.
- MichelleÁádóó dtlʼóoʼí tʼáá héezgháá.And the blue corn is very beautiful.
- JustinÁáʼááh, tʼáá ałtsé náhíní.Yes, let's plant it first.