iye
The Edo word for grandma is iye.
iye is used to refer to a grandmother in an informal context.
Meaning: grandmother (informal) (noun)
Did you know?
- When speaking to an elderly woman who is not a relative, using the term iye can be a way to show warmth and familial closeness, effectively treating a stranger like a grandmother.
- Historically, the term for a grandmother in Edo culture often carries an implicit expectation of her role as a storyteller and keeper of oral history.
- When using iye to address an elder, the physical posture of the speaker is often as important as the word itself to show proper respect.
Examples in context
- Iye re khue.Grandma is coming.
- Iye re nọ̀ mọ̀.Grandma is eating.
- Iye re nọ̀ rhiẹ.Grandma is sleeping.
Example conversation
Ehi is talking to Ebe about their grandmother.
- EhiEbe, iye re?Ebe, is grandma here?
- EbeEe, iye re.Yes, grandma is here.
- EhiIye n'ó khé?Where is grandma?
- EbeIye re ebe.Grandma is in the room.
