uthando
[útʰâːⁿd̥o̤]
The Xhosa word for love is uthando.
uthando refers to strong affection, passion or fondness towards someone or something.
Meaning: strong affection (noun)
Did you know?
- In Xhosa culture, the concept of uthando is deeply linked to ubuntu, the belief that a person is a person through other people. This means love is often viewed as a communal responsibility rather than just a private emotion between two individuals.
- The root thanda can also be used to mean 'to want' or 'to desire', making the line between 'loving' someone and 'wanting' something very thin.
- The root of uthando is the verb thanda, which can also be used to express that you 'like' something. Depending on the context, the same word can describe a mild preference for a food or a deep, lifelong romantic love.
Examples in context
- Kaloku wena uluthando lwam.Because you are my love.This sentence is useful for showing how to use uthando to refer to someone as a personified source of love.
- Uthando lwezinto ezimnandi.Love for sweet things.
Example conversation
Siyabonga and Zoleka are talking about their relationship.
- SiyabongaZoleka, ndiyakuthanda.Zoleka, I love you.
- ZolekaNantso imbali yothando yethu.Here is our flower of love.
- SiyabongaUthando lwethu lunamandla.Our love is strong.
- ZolekaEwe, Siyabonga, luyaphila.Yes, Siyabonga, it is alive.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “love” translations and entries uthando, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
