jaber
The Luo word for handsome is jaber.
The term jaber is used specifically to describe an attractive man.
Meaning: of man: attractive (adj)
Did you know?
- Because Luo is a tonal language, the meaning of jaber can shift based on the pitch used. A slight change in how you lift your voice can transform a compliment into a different word entirely.
- The word jaber shares a conceptual root with ideas of 'goodness' or 'wellness' in certain Nilotic linguistic structures. To be 'handsome' is to be 'good' in a holistic sense.
- In some Luo-speaking communities, calling a man jaber is not just a compliment to his looks, but can imply he possesses a refined and noble character.
Example conversation
Akinyi is commenting on a man in a photograph.
- OtienoNyarruo moro ma nigi picha ni?Who is the person in this photo?
- AkinyiEn wuoyo ma jaber ahinya.He is a very handsome man.
- OtienoAn gi kinyi ma en jaber.I agree that he is handsome.
- AkinyiEe, en jaber matek.Yes, he is very handsome.
