jiibay
The English word ghost is jiibay in Ojibwe.
jiibay is a noun used to refer to a spirit that appears after death.
Meaning: spirit appearing after death (noun)
Did you know?
- In many Ojibwe communities, the word jiibay can also be used to describe a person who is 'ghost-like' or extremely thin and sickly due to a lack of vitality.
- The word relates to the broader Ojibwe concept of the 'breath' or 'life force' that leaves the body, making the term more about the essence of life than a spooky apparition.
- Traditional Ojibwe beliefs suggest that jiibay can be appeased or guided using specific songs and offerings of tobacco.
Example conversation
Zhaawan and Miskwaa are talking about a spooky old house.
- ZhaawanJiibay gwayakii nindooning.There is a ghost in my house.
- MiskwaaAaniish ko jiibay gichi-ninawaabigoon?How did you see the ghost?
- ZhaawanJiibay nishindaamaagoo nishiniig.The ghost is in the kitchen.
- MiskwaaJiibay giizhigamig, aawe!A ghost arrived, really!
