kʼé
The English word "culture" is translated into Navajo as kʼé.
kʼé refers to the beliefs, values, behavior and material objects that constitute a people's way of life.
Meaning: the beliefs, values, behavior and material objects that constitute a people's way of life (noun)
Did you know?
- The philosophy of kʼé is central to the Navajo concept of 'Hózhó', which is the pursuit of beauty, balance and health in all things.
- Because kʼé is so deeply tied to kinship, there are dozens of specific terms for different relatives that all fall under the umbrella of this one concept.
- Saying kʼé can be seen as an acknowledgment of one's responsibilities to others, as the word is inextricably linked to the concept of familial obligation.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing their heritage.
- JessicaShił kʼé tʼáá łahjįʼ bee nitsʼááł.My culture is very different.
- BrandonTʼáá áéí bee nitsʼááł?Is that how it is?
- JessicaÁáł, kʼé bee nááshááł.Yes, I grew up with my culture.
- BrandonKʼé tʼáá łahjįʼ bee nitsʼááł tʼaadighááh.A different culture is interesting.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry kʼé, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
