Felis Nåbidåt
Felis Nåbidåt is the Chamorro way to say merry christmas.
This phrase is used to express good wishes during the Christmas season.
Meaning: good wishes at Christmas time (phrase)
Did you know?
- The word Nåbidåt is a phonetic adaptation of the English word 'Christmas' filtered through Spanish influence, reflecting the complex colonial history of the Mariana Islands.
- Because the Mariana Islands are tropical, the 'merry' wishes of Felis Nåbidåt are exchanged during some of the hottest and most humid months of the year.
- During the Christmas season, people in the Marianas may use the phrase alongside the custom of singing 'villancicos', which are traditional Spanish-style carols.
Examples in context
- Felis Nåbidåt i familiå yan amå.Merry Christmas to the family and parents.
Example conversation
Antonio and Elena meet at a holiday party.
- AntonioHåfa destination, Elena! Felis Nåbidåt!How's it going, Elena! Merry Christmas!
- ElenaFelis Nåbidåt, Antonio!Merry Christmas, Antonio!
- AntonioSiña hou laggao?Can we go inside?
- ElenaHåga, munaYes, let's go.
