How to Say “Happy Birthday” in Lakota

By Warren Edward • Updated October 1, 2026

anpetu tonpi owastecakel

The English phrase happy birthday is said in Lakota as anpetu tonpi owastecakel.

This phrase is used to express good wishes to someone on their birthday.

Meaning: good wishes for a birthday (intj)

Did you know?

The word anpetu for 'day' is closely linked to the word for 'face', suggesting that a day is seen as the 'face' of a period of time.
Traditional Lakota society historically placed more cultural importance on naming ceremonies and rites of passage than on the annual anniversary of a birth.
While English speakers celebrate the date, a Lakota speaker is linguistically celebrating the quality of the days being counted.

Example conversation

Joyce surprises Curtis with a cake.

Joyce

Anpetu tonpi owastecakel, Curtis!
Happy birthday, Curtis!
Curtis

Tȟuŋyašničhiša, Joyce!
Thank you, Joyce!
Joyce

Iya, kani kani kȟunka!
Here, take this, friend!
Curtis

Waniyanpa, tȟuŋyašničhiša!
Wow, thank you!

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About The Author

Warren Edward

Hello there! My name is Warren, or as I might introduce myself in Lakota, "Warren mitakuye oyasin." Yes, I'm passionate about the Lakota language and culture, and I've carved out a niche for myself teaching others through my blog posts. I've covered everything from colors like "ska" (white) to animals like "šunkawakhan" (horse). Interestingly, you'll also find me diving into emotional expressions and daily life phrases. In my spare time, I'm hiking, engaging in animal photography, or sipping "wičháȟpi kičhíyuzapi" (Lakota for ‘cold coffee’) while contemplating my next topic. Over here, it's all about learning and sharing - Let's dive in!

Warren EdwardHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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