manika
/maˈnikaʔ/
The Filipino word for "doll" is manika.
manika refers to a toy made in the form of a human.
Meaning: a toy in the form of a human (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the word plural, add the marker mga before it to get mga manika. When using manika as a modifier for another noun, such as in the phrase "doll house", attach the linker -ng to the end of the word to form manikang.
How do you pronounce it?
/maˈnikaʔ/
Did you know?
- In certain superstitious contexts in the Philippines, certain dolls or figures may be treated with a level of ritual respect or fear that is not common in Western views of toys.
- The word manika is a loanword from the Spanish muñeca, which reflects the long period of Spanish colonial influence on the Philippines.
- In Filipino pop culture, the term 'manika' can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe a person who is being easily manipulated or controlled by others, similar to a 'puppet' in English.
Examples in context
- Hindi po ako manika.I'm not a doll.This sentence shows how to use manika in a negative statement.Tatoeba #12149747 by qwertzu, translation #12012773 by Pacific
- Nakatitig ang bata sa manika.The girl was gazing at the doll.This sentence shows the word being used as the object of a gaze.Tatoeba #11775104 by qwertzu, translation #46439 by CK
- Niregaluhan niya siya ng isang manika.He presented her with a doll.This sentence shows the word being used as a gift.Tatoeba #11532163 by qwertzu, translation #261200 by CK
- Binili nya ang laruan na mukhang tao bilang regalo para sa kaniyang anak.He bought the humanoid doll as a gift for his child.
- 16 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Jose and Angela are cleaning the playroom.
- JoseNasaan na ang manika ni Angela?Where is Angela's doll?
- AngelaNasa loob po ito ng kahon.It is inside the box.
- JosePakikuha nga ang manika para sa akin.Please get the doll for me.
- AngelaHeto na po, Jose.Here it is, Jose.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry manika, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
