How to Say “Brother” in Apache

By Douglas Juan • Updated October 1, 2026

shikʼis

shikʼis is the Apache word for brother.

shikʼis is used to refer to a male sibling.

Meaning: male sibling (noun)

Did you know?

Because of the emphasis on matrilineal descent in many Apache groups, a 'brother' is technically a person who shares the same mother as you.
The 'kʼ' in shikʼis is an ejective consonant. Unlike the English 'k' which is a simple release of air, this sound requires the speaker to close the glottis and build pressure in the throat.
The kinship system in Apache is often 'bifurcate merging', meaning a person might use the same term for their father's brother and their father.

Example conversation

David introduces his sibling to Sarah.

David

Sarah, shikʼis nʼdée.
Sarah, my brother is here.
Sarah

Kʼaa nʼdaʼii?
Is he coming?
David

Ááʼ, shikʼis tʼiis dadiʼ.
Yes, my brother is very tall.
Sarah

Kʼaa nʼdaʼii tʼiis.
He is very welcome.

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About The Author

Douglas Juan

Hello, I am Douglas, an absolute Navajo language enthusiast. My passion for this beautiful language, coupled with my love for sharing knowledge, has inspired me to write numerous guides on common phrases and words. I enjoy exploring words from "Angel" to "Yucca" and everything in between. In my leisure time, you'll often find me experimenting with traditional Navajo recipes, strolling amidst nature, or enjoying a robust cup of traditional Navajo tea. Apache is spoken not far from Navajo, and it has become another language close to my heart, so you will now find my guides to Apache here too. Haash yinilyeii (that's how I say 'that's me' in Navajo)!

Douglas JuanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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