cheii
The Navajo word for grandpa is cheii.
The word is a noun used to refer to a grandfather.
Meaning: grandfather (informal) (noun)
Which one should you use?
Shícheii is a specific informal way to address him directly.
Did you know?
- In Navajo culture, cheii often refers to any elderly man of a grandfather's generation, not just a direct biological ancestor.
- In Navajo, the word for 'grandfather' changes depending on whether he is a maternal or paternal grandfather. While 'cheii' is a general term, specific kinship terms are used to distinguish which side of the family he belongs to.
- In traditional Navajo storytelling, the figure of the grandfather is often associated with the transmission of sacred history and oral laws.
Examples in context
- Cheii yinidiłtʼį́.Grandpa is sleeping.
- Cheii bił hózhǫ́.Grandpa is doing well.
Example conversation
Tyler and Jessica are visiting their grandfather's house.
- TylerCheii, shíní kʼééʼdááʼ.Grandpa, I am here.
- JessicaYáʼát'ééh, t'áá ályááł cheii.Hello, the grandpa is very old.
- TylerCheii, shíkéésh chʼééh.Grandpa, I have a gift.
- JessicaYá'át'ééh, t'áá áko cheii.That is good, grandpa.
