kiitikio
The Swahili word for chorus is kiitikio.
Kiitikio refers to the part of a song that is repeated between verses, similar to a refrain.
Meaning: part of a song repeated between verses (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is derived from the verb itika, which means to respond or to be echoed. Therefore, it literally means the part that responds or repeats.
Did you know?
- In many East African musical traditions, the 'response' is often the most important part for the audience, making the kiitikio a communal rather than a solo element.
- The verb itika is also found in the context of 'responding to an invitation' or 'responding to a call', linking the chorus to a sense of duty or readiness.
- The noun prefix ki- in kiitikio can often indicate a tool or a specific manner of doing something, framing the chorus as the 'tool' used to respond to the verse.
Examples in context
- Mpaka sasa, kiitikio cha wimbo huu kimenigusa moyo.So far, the chorus of this song has touched my heart.
- Tunaimba kiitikio cha wimbo huu kwa mara ya pili.We are singing the chorus of this song for the second time.
- Kiitikio cha wimbo huu ni kizuri.The chorus of this song is beautiful.
- Je, unakumbuka kiitikio cha wimbo ule?Do you remember the chorus of that song?
- Lazima tufunze kiitikio kabla ya kuanza.We must learn the chorus before starting.
Example conversation
Bakari and Neema are practicing a song together.
- BakariNeema, je, unajua kiitikio?Neema, do you know the chorus?
- NeemaNdiyo, nimekikumbuka vizuri.Yes, I remember it well.
- BakariSafi sana, basi tuanze kuimba.Very good, then let's start singing.
- NeemaTayari, niko tayari kuanza.Ready, I am ready to start.
