ọkà bàbà
In Yoruba, the English phrase "guinea corn" is translated as ọkà bàbà.
ọkà bàbà refers to the grain known scientifically as Sorghum vulgare.
Meaning: Sorghum vulgare (noun)
Did you know?
- In many Yoruba linguistic contexts, adding bàbà to a noun can signify that the item is the original, most common, or 'standard' version of that thing.
- In many traditional Yoruba households, the processing of ọkà bàbà is a rhythmic communal activity that often involves specific songs to pass the time.
- Traditional Yoruba brewers use ọkà bàbà to produce a thick, nutrient-rich local beer known as burukutu.
Examples in context
- Mo fẹ́ ra ọkà bàbà diẹ.I want to buy some guinea corn.
Example conversation
Babatunde and Folake are talking about cooking ingredients.
- FolakeBabatunde, ǹjẹ́ o ní ọkà bàbà?Babatunde, do you have guinea corn?
- BabatundeBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, mo ní díẹ̀.Yes, I have a little.
- FolakeẸ jọ̀wọ́, fún mi ní ọkà bàbà yẹn.Please, give me that guinea corn.
- BabatundeO dáyẹ, mo máa fún ẹ.Alright, I will give it to you.
