waqooyi
waqooyi is the Somali word for north.
waqooyi is used as a noun to refer to the compass point north.
Meaning: compass point (noun)
Did you know?
- The Somali system of cardinal directions blends permanent points like waqooyi with words that describe the cycle of a day, such as 'morning' for east.
- In many Somali nomadic contexts, directions like waqooyi are often conceptualized through the movement of seasonal winds or livestock migration patterns rather than just a magnetic compass.
- The term waqooyi is frequently used in Somali news and politics to refer to the northern regions of the country, particularly the territory of Somaliland.
Examples in context
- Magaaladu waxay ku taal dhinaca waqooyi.The city is located to the north.
Example conversation
Mustafa and Hodan are looking at a map while hiking.
- MustafaHodan, ma ogtahay jihada waqooyi?Hodan, do you know which way is north?
- HodanHaa, waqooyi waa dhinacaas.Yes, north is that way.
- MustafaMa dhinac waqooyi ayaan u soconnaa?Are we walking towards the north?
- HodanMaya, Mustafa, dhinaca kale ayaan u soconnaa.No, Mustafa, we are walking in the other direction.
