matȟóčhila
In Lakota, 'little bear' is translated as matȟóčhila.
The phrase is used to refer specifically to a young bear.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is a compound consisting of matȟó, which means bear and the suffix -čhila, meaning child or little one.
How does it change in a sentence?
The suffix -čhila is used to denote a young or small version of an animal or person.
Did you know?
- Naming a child matȟóčhila can be a protective measure, as giving a child a name associated with a powerful animal was sometimes believed to ward off illness.
- Using the diminutive suffix -čhila when addressing an adult can flip from being 'sweet' to being perceived as 'patronizing' depending on the social hierarchy.
- The spelling of matȟóčhila includes a dot above the 'h' which signals a specific breathy sound that English speakers do not naturally produce.
Examples in context
- Matȟóčhila wicóica.The little bear is walking.
- Matȟóčhila yamni.The little bear is tasty.
Example conversation
Glenda and Darrell are looking at a picture book.
- GlendaMatȟóčhila wašíčha!A little bear!
- DarrellHéčha, matȟóčhila lačha.Yes, a cute little bear.
- GlendaMatȟóčhila waúŋčhačha.I see the little bear.
- DarrellKani matȟóčhila wašíčha.There is the little bear.
