genawenjiged
The Ojibwe word for guardian is genawenjiged.
This noun refers to a person who is legally responsible for a minor in a capacity similar to a parent.
Meaning: law: person legally responsible for a minor in loco parentis (noun)
Did you know?
- Ojibwe is a polysynthetic language, meaning a single word like genawenjiged contains multiple pieces of information that would require a whole sentence in English.
- In many Ojibwe communities, the concept of a 'guardian' is often socially tied to the extended kinship system rather than just a legal designation.
- The word can be used to describe the act of caring for things in nature, not just human children.
Example conversation
Zhaawan and Winona are discussing family legal matters.
- ZhaawanWinona, genawenjiged nindaa?Winona, is he my guardian?
- WinonaEe, genawenjiged nindaa.Yes, he is your guardian.
- ZhaawanGichi-miigwech, Winona.Thank you very much, Winona.
- WinonaAamin, Zhaawan.You're welcome, Zhaawan.
