m̧ōñā
The Marshallese verb for 'eat' is m̧ōñā.
m̧ōñā is used to describe the act of eating a meal.
Meaning: eat a meal (verb)
Did you know?
- In many Marshallese contexts, inviting someone to m̧ōñā is as much a social greeting as it is a literal offer of food.
- The unique character 'm̧' in m̧ōñā represents a sound that does not exist in English, requiring the speaker to position their lips differently than for a standard 'm'.
- Marshallese social hierarchy is reflected in the act of eating, where the timing and sequence of when certain people begin to m̧ōñā follows strict traditional protocols.
Examples in context
- E m̧ōñā kōr.He eats fish.
- E m̧ōñā bwe.She eats breadfruit.
Example conversation
Joseph and Mary are sitting down for dinner.
- JosephMary, m̧ōñā.Mary, eat.
- MaryKajin m̧ōñā!Let's eat!
- JosephIlo m̧ōñā n̄aan jipwaj.Eat for the children.
- MaryIakwe, m̧ōñā iro.Hello, eat here.
