naalzheehí
The Navajo word for hunter is naalzheehí.
naalzheehí refers to a person who hunts animals.
Meaning: person who hunts animals (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word is composed of the verb stem naalzhéé (to track or follow footprints) and the agentive suffix -hí (one who does something).
Did you know?
- The root of naalzheehí describes the act of tracking footprints rather than the act of killing. In Navajo culture, the skill of the 'hunter' is defined by the ability to read the land and follow a trail.
- The Navajo language has a high degree of specificity regarding 'tracking', which is the core of naalzheehí. There are different words for tracks made in sand, mud or snow.
- Certain hunting activities were traditionally avoided during specific seasons or ceremonial periods to maintain harmony, meaning a naalzheehí might be forbidden from hunting for months.
Examples in context
- Naalzheehí deezkááʼ.The hunter is tracking.
- Naalzheehí dóó bił hashtʼééʼ.The hunter and his dog are there.
Example conversation
Amanda and Kyle are talking about their grandfather.
- AmandaHastiin bee náhééshąą́, naalzheehí níyá?About the man, is he a hunter?
- KyleÁáshááł, naalzheehí níyá.Yes, he is a hunter.
- AmandaT'áá łéé' naalzheehí níyá?Is he the only hunter?
- KyleHaa'aana, naalzheehí t'áá áání.No, he is just a hunter.
