How to Say “Goodnight” in Choctaw

By Russell Isaac • Updated October 1, 2026

ninak amwa

ninak amwa is the Choctaw way to say goodnight.

This phrase is used to wish someone a good night's sleep or as a farewell at night.

Did you know?

Choctaw is a polysynthetic language, meaning a single word can function as an entire sentence in English.
The Choctaw language belongs to the Muskogean family, which is distinct from the Algonquian or Iroquoian families spoken in other parts of North America.
In Choctaw, 'goodnight' literally translates to 'sleep well' or 'you sleep well' rather than 'good night'.

Example conversation

James and Mary are saying goodnight before going to bed.

James

Ninak amwa, Mary.
Goodnight, Mary.
Mary

Ninak amwa, James.
Goodnight, James.
James

Talo hachuk.
Sleep well.
Mary

Wihituk.
Thank you.

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About The Author

Russell Isaac

Hi there, I'm Russell. When I'm not immersing myself in the beautiful Cherokee language (ᏣᎳᎩ ᎦᏬᏂᎯᏍᏗ), you can find me out exploring nature or capturing the colors of the sunset on canvas. I'm a passionate language enthusiast, guide to all wanting to learn Cherokee, and a bit of an outdoorsman. My hobbies include bird-watching (ᎯᎳᎳ or "hila"), tracking bison, and trying to congregate with black foxes. I also write guides on Choctaw, another Native American language of the Southeast that I love exploring alongside Cherokee. I'm here to help you navigate the intricacies of the Cherokee language - from the simplest of greetings to expressing grander concepts; who knows, you might end up having a "good day" (ᏚᎾᏕᏘᏯ) in Cherokee sooner than you think!

Russell IsaacHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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