tȟuŋkášila
The Lakota word for grandfather is tȟuŋkášila.
The term tȟuŋkášila is used to refer to a grandfather from either the maternal or paternal side of a person's family.
Meaning: grandfather (from either side) (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is composed of roots relating to elder or respected male figures.
Did you know?
- In Lakota spirituality, the Creator is often referred to as Wakaŋ Tȟuŋkášila, which translates to 'Great Spirit' or 'Sacred Grandfather'.
- In many Lakota communities, the term tȟuŋkášila is not just a title for a relative, but a term of respect used for any elderly man, regardless of whether there is a blood relation.
- The term tȟuŋkášila is an example of a 'classificatory' kinship system where the distinction between a biological grandfather and a great-grandfather is often blurred in daily speech.
Example conversation
Curtis and Joyce are looking at a family photograph.
- CurtisTȟuŋkášila hą́ wašté?Is your grandfather good?
- JoyceHé, tȟuŋkášila wašté.Yes, my grandfather is good.
- CurtisTȟuŋkášila tȟaŋká hą́?Is your grandfather old?
- JoyceHé, tȟuŋkášila tȟaŋká.Yes, my grandfather is old.
