mokonzi
The Lingala word for king is mokonzi. Wiktionary also lists mani.
Meaning: a male of a royal family who is the supreme ruler of his nation (noun)
Ways to say it
| Lingala |
|---|
| mokonzi |
| mani |
The word refers to a male of a royal family who is the supreme ruler of his nation.
Which one should you use?
While mokonzi can mean king, it is a more general term for a leader, boss or person in authority. The form mani is another way to express the concept of a king.
Did you know?
- In many urban areas, calling someone a mokonzi can be a sarcastic way to describe a bossy person who is acting like they are in charge.
- In Congolese music, particularly in Rumba, the term mokonzi is often used as a metaphor for a master of an art or a virtuoso musician.
- In many Lingala-speaking communities, the concept of 'king' differs from European monarchy because authority was often shared among a council of elders.
Examples in context
- Mokonzi akomi na mboka.The king has arrived in the country.
- Mokonzi wana azali na makasi.That king is powerful.
Example conversation
Marie and Patient are discussing a history book.
- MariePatient, okomoni mokonzi na kitabu oyo?Patient, do you see the king in this book?
- PatientEe, mokonzi wana azali moko ya malamu.Yes, that king is a good one.
- MarieMboka na ye ezali kitoko mingi.His country is very beautiful.
- PatientMokonzi mpe azali na nkembo.The king also has glory.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “king” translations and entries mokonzi, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
