dibé yázhí
/tɪ̀pɛ́ jɑ́ʒɪ́/
The Navajo word for lamb is dibé yázhí.
The term is used to refer to a young sheep.
Meaning: young sheep (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is a compound of dibé, meaning sheep and yázhí, meaning small or young.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word yázhí functions as an adjective or a diminutive suffix to indicate that the sheep is young.
How do you pronounce it?
/tɪ̀pɛ́ jɑ́ʒɪ́/
Did you know?
- Sheep were introduced to the Navajo by the Spanish, meaning the word dibé represents a historical fusion of indigenous culture and colonial influence.
- The word dibé is a cornerstone of the Navajo economy and identity, as sheep are viewed not just as livestock but as a source of spiritual and physical protection.
- Naming a dibé yázhí often involves kinship terms, as the sheep are frequently treated as members of the extended family unit.
Example sentences for Navajo are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Brandon and Jessica are visiting a farm.
- BrandonHózhǫ́ǫ́ dibé yázhí.The lamb is beautiful.
- JessicaÁáʼáá, t'áá yázhí.Yes, it is very small.
- BrandonDibé yázhí łéí łóóʼ.The lamb is soft.
- JessicaDoo t'áá łéé'go hólǫ́.It does not have much wool.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “lamb” translations and entries dibé yázhí, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
