say
say is the Somali word for husband.
The term is used to refer to a male partner in a marriage.
Meaning: male partner in marriage (noun)
Did you know?
- In many Somali communities, a woman might avoid using her husband's actual name in public to show respect, instead referring to him through his role as a father or via certain honorifics.
- In Somali poetry, which is central to the culture, a husband is often praised through his genealogy and his clan's reputation rather than individual traits.
- In Somali culture, a woman may refer to her say as ninkayga, which literally translates to 'my man'.
Example conversation
Hodan is introducing her husband to a friend.
- HodanKani waa saygayga.This is my husband.
- AbdirashidKudhownaada, Abdirashid.Nice to meet you, Abdirashid.
- HodanSaygu waa qof aad u caqli badan.My husband is a very intelligent person.
- AbdirashidWaan dareemi karaa taas.I can tell that.
