dayê
The Kurdish word for mom is dayê.
This phrase is an informal way to refer to a person's mother.
Which one should you use?
While dayê is a standard informal term, you may also encounter dê and mama. dê is an informal word for mom, and mama is a term used by children to refer to their mother in a loving and informal manner.
When do people say it?
When children want to express affection for their mother, they may use the term mama.
Did you know?
- In some Kurdish dialects, the word dayê is used as an exclamation of surprise or frustration, similar to how an English speaker might say 'Oh my goodness'.
- In some Kurdish poetic traditions, the concept of the 'mother' is used as a metaphor for the 'homeland' or 'land' itself.
- Even though 'mama' sounds identical to the English word for 'mother', it is often used in Kurdish to address much older women as a polite honorific.
Examples in context
- Dayê, xwarin gelek xweş e.Mom, the food is very delicious.
- Dayê, tu çawa yî?Mom, how are you?
Example conversation
Sarya is asking Aras about their mother's location.
- SaryaAras, dayê li kûyê ye?Aras, where is mom?
- ArasEw li aşpirdanê ye.She is in the kitchen.
- SaryaMin wextê wê divê.I need her time.
- ArasEz ê ji dayê bibêjim.I will tell mom.
