How to Say “My Love” in Maasai

By Sadie Louise • Updated October 1, 2026

sapan

The English phrase "my love" is translated into Maasai as sapan.

sapan is a term of endearment used to address someone who is loved.

Did you know?

The way affection is expressed in Maasai is frequently through shared physical actions and cattle-related metaphors rather than just spoken words like sapan.
The concept of 'love' in a Nilotic language like Maasai often carries connotations of 'protection' or 'caretaking' that are not as explicit in the English 'love'.
The Maasai language belongs to the Nilotic family, which means it is more closely related to languages spoken in South Sudan than to the nearby Bantu languages like Swahili.

Example conversation

Lemeian and Siron are greeting each other in the morning.

Lemeian

Sapan, kaji ntoki?
My love, how are you?
Siron

Ara mshai, Lemeian.
I am fine, Lemeian.
Lemeian

Eishai ashe, Siron.
I love you, Siron.
Siron

Eishai ashe aie.
I love you too.

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About The Author

Sadie Louise

Hi, I'm Sadie, an avid language enthusiast. Among my passions are travelling the world to learn about different cultures, focusing on unique dialects, and experimenting with various ways of expressing common phrases in diverse languages. I enjoy sharing knowledge on how to pronounce challenging words and guiding others on expressing themselves in formal or informal ways across cultures. I find comfort in writing, exploring new communication styles, and teaching others to accurately utilise language. I believe that language can bridge gaps and create connections among people. I have also developed a real fondness for Maasai, and I now write guides on how to say everyday words in Maasai. Come along, let's explore language together!

Sadie LouiseHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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