umakhulu
[úmákʰûːlu]
The English word "grandma" is translated into Xhosa as umakhulu.
The term is used to refer to a grandmother.
Meaning: grandmother (informal) (noun)
Which one should you use?
While umakhulu is a standard form, other variations exist depending on the level of formality required.
Did you know?
- The root of umakhulu comes from the word ikhulu, meaning 'great' or 'large'. In Xhosa, calling a grandmother 'the great one' acknowledges her status and wisdom within the family hierarchy.
- In many Xhosa-speaking households, calling an elderly woman umakhulu is a sign of deep respect even if she is not biologically related to you.
- In Xhosa culture, the concept of a grandmother is tied to the role of the family storyteller and keeper of oral history.
Examples in context
- Ndiyayithanda umakhulu wam.I love my grandma.
- Umakhulu uza kufika kusasa.Grandma will arrive tomorrow.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about a visit.
- NomvulaLwazi, umakhulu uza kufika nini?Lwazi, when is grandma arriving?
- LwaziUmakhulu uza kufika ngoku.Grandma is arriving now.
- NomvulaNdiyavuya kakhulu ukumbona umakhulu.I am very happy to see grandma.
- LwaziNam ndiyavuya ukumbona.I am also happy to see her.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry umakhulu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
