caano
[ʡ͜ʢɑ̄ɑ̀ˈnɔ́]masculine
The Somali word for milk is caano.
This includes cow's milk, goat's milk and milk from any other animal.
Meaning: liquid (noun)
How does it change in a sentence?
caano is a masculine noun.
Did you know?
- The word caano is closely related to the Somali word candho, which refers to the 'stomach' or 'belly' of an animal.
- Milk is so central to the nomadic lifestyle that specific Somali terms exist to distinguish milk based on its stage of fermentation.
- Because of the historical importance of camels, the concept of 'milk' is often inextricably linked to camel milk, which remains a dietary staple and cultural cornerstone.
Examples in context
- caano diirranWarm milk
- Caano badan ayaa jira.There is a lot of milk.
- Ma rabtaa caano?Do you want milk?
- Caano kulul ayaa diyaarsan.Hot milk is ready.
Example conversation
A kitchen in the morning where Farah is preparing breakfast.
- FarahHodan, ma kuu keenaa caano?Hodan, shall I bring you some milk?
- HodanHaa, fadlan, caano ayaan rabaa.Yes, please, I want milk.
- FarahMa caano qabow mise kulul?Cold milk or hot milk?
- HodanCaano kulul ii keen, Farah.Bring me hot milk, Farah.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “milk” translations and entries caano, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries caano, CC BY-SA 4.0.
