umkhulu
The Zulu word for grandfather is umkhulu.
The term umkhulu is used to refer to a grandfather from either the maternal or paternal side of a family.
Meaning: grandfather (from either side) (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word umkhulu is derived from an adjective meaning big, great or old.
Did you know?
- In Zulu culture, the term umkhulu is often used as a sign of respect for any elderly man in the community, even if he is not a biological relative.
- While umkhulu refers to the grandfather, the word for grandmother is ugogo, reflecting a distinct linguistic root rather than a gendered version of the same word.
- In traditional Zulu society, the umkhulu often serves as the primary keeper of oral history and ancestral lineage for the grandchildren.
Examples in context
- Umkhulu uyamamatheka.Grandfather is smiling.
- Ngifuna ukuyobona umkhulu.I want to go see grandfather.
- Umkhulu ulele esitulweni.Grandfather is sleeping on the chair.
Example conversation
Nomalusa and Sipho are looking at an old family photograph.
- NomalusaBheka, lo ngumkhulu.Look, this is grandfather.
- SiphoUbukhona kanjani?How was he?
- NomalusaUmkhulu wayenomusa kakhulu.Grandfather was very kind.
- SiphoUbonakala ejabulile lapha.He looks happy here.
