kui fefine
The Tongan word for grandma is kui fefine.
kui fefine is used to refer to a grandmother in an informal manner.
Meaning: grandmother (informal) (noun)
Did you know?
- The term fefine shares an ancient linguistic root with the word for 'pig' in some very early Proto-Austronesian languages.
- When addressing a kui fefine, it is common to avoid direct eye contact as a sign of deep respect and humility.
- In many Tongan families, the same word kui is used for both a grandmother and a great-grandmother.
Example conversation
Ana and Sione are talking about their family visit.
- AnaKuai ʻa e kui fefine?Where is grandma?
- SioneʻOku mālie pē ʻa e kui fefine.Grandma is just relaxing.
- AnaʻOku fie maʻu ʻa e kui fefine?Does grandma need anything?
- SioneʻIkai, ʻoku lelei pē ia.No, she is doing fine.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries fefine, CC BY-SA 4.0.
