How to Say “Brother” in Sesotho

By Virginia Ellie • Updated October 1, 2026

chelete

The Sesotho word for brother is chelete.

Meaning: male sibling (noun)

Did you know?

In Sesotho, the word chelete is actually used for 'money', not 'brother'. The word for brother is abuti for an older brother or ngwana for a sibling.

Examples in context

Abuti wa ka o tloha sekolong?
Is my older brother coming from school?
Na o ya le abuti wa hao?
Are you going with your older brother?

Example conversation

Palesa is introducing her family to Thabo.

Palesa

Thabo, enye ke chelete ea ka.
Thabo, this is my brother.
Thabo

Lumela, ke thabo ho u kopana.
Hello, it is a pleasure to meet you.
Palesa

Chelete ea ka o rata pula.
My brother likes rain.
Thabo

Le nna ke e rata.
I like it too.

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About The Author

Virginia Ellie

Hello there, I'm Virginia! I'm passionate about languages and communication and love nothing more than breaking down language barriers. When I'm not penning down practical guides on pronunciation and language nuances, you'll find me savoring a good book or on a nature trail, keeping an ear open for rare regional vocabularies. I hope my work helps bridge your cultural, professional, and personal communication gaps. One language that keeps pulling me in is Sesotho, so you will also find my guides to saying things in Sesotho here. Bonne Chance!

Virginia EllieHelp 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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