bitsóí
The Navajo word for nephew is bitsóí.
The term bitsóí is used to refer to a fraternal or sororal nephew.
Meaning: fraternal or sororal nephew (noun)
Did you know?
- In traditional Navajo social structures, a bitsóí would historically look to his mother's brother for guidance and discipline rather than his own father.
- Navajo kinship terms like bitsóí are used not only for blood relatives but also to describe people of the same clan who occupy that generational position.
- Navajo kinship systems are 'matrilineal', meaning the identity and clan connections of a nephew are often defined by his relationship to his mother's side of the family.
Example conversation
Michelle is showing a photo of her family to Kyle.
- MichelleBitsóí t'áá áání.My nephew says so.
- KyleÁá', t'áá ákót'é.Yes, he is just like that.
- MichelleBitsóí t'áá áníshą́.I think my nephew is funny.
- KyleT'áá ákót'é.He really is.
