naadą́ą́ʼ
/nɑ̀ːtɑ̃́ːʔ/
The English word "corn" is translated into Navajo as naadą́ą́ʼ.
naadą́ą́ʼ refers to a cereal plant that produces large grains on a cob.
How do you pronounce it?
/nɑ̀ːtɑ̃́ːʔ/
Did you know?
- The name naadą́ą́ʼ literally translates to 'enemy's food'.
- White corn is traditionally associated with the east and the beginning of the day in Navajo ceremonial practices.
- In Navajo culture, corn is not just food but is deeply tied to the creation stories and the spiritual balance of the world.
Example conversation
Michelle and Kyle are talking about gardening.
- MichelleNaadą́ą́ʼ nilááʼ?Do you have corn?
- KyleÁáʼ, naadą́ą́ʼ nilááʼ.Yes, I have corn.
- MichelleTʼáá ákótʼé, tʼáá ákótʼé.That is good, that is good.
- KyleDíí naadą́ą́ʼ tʼáá łéłááʼ.This corn is very sweet.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry naadą́ą́ʼ, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries naadą́ą́ʼ, CC BY-SA 4.0.
