nyalil
The Kalenjin word for handsome is nyalil.
This adjective is used specifically to describe men who are considered attractive.
Meaning: of man: attractive (adj)
Did you know?
- If you use nyalil to describe an object or a piece of work, you may inadvertently imply that the object possesses masculine-coded qualities.
- In many Kalenjin-speaking communities, a man's attractiveness is often linked to his ability to perform traditional duties, such as herding livestock or demonstrating bravery.
- While nyalil refers to physical appearance, a man might be described as 'strong' or 'capable' to convey a deeper sense of being a 'handsome' or impressive man in a social context.
Examples in context
- Kasike arap Tumoi ni manan.Chief arap Tumoi is handsome.
- Oriet ne nyalil.A handsome man.
- Kipkorir ne nyalil.The handsome Kipkorir.
- Nyalil nyo.He is handsome.
Example conversation
Chepkorir is talking about a new neighbor to Kipkorir.
- KipkorirKonyit mwaita nyalil ko kanyat.That handsome man is our neighbor.
- ChepkorirKora nyalil mising?Is he very handsome?
- KipkorirEe, nyalil mising mising.Yes, he is very, very handsome.
- ChepkorirMise mising.That is very good.
