ayẹyẹ
The English word "party" is translated into Yoruba as ayẹyẹ.
The term ayẹyẹ is used to describe various types of social gatherings, such as birthdays, weddings and celebrations of achievement.
Meaning: social gathering (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, ayẹyẹ means "celebration" or "festivity".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Lagos, the variation Ówámbè is commonly used to refer to a party.
Did you know?
- If you are invited to an ayẹyẹ, you might be expected to participate in 'spraying' money, a custom where guests pin currency on dancers.
- During an ayẹyẹ, the 'talking drum' is often used to sing the praises of guests, effectively turning the party into a live oral history session.
- At an Ówámbè, guests often wear aso ebi, which are matching outfits chosen by the host to visually signify family ties and social solidarity.
Examples in context
- Ayẹyẹ náà dùn mọ́ mi.The party was enjoyable to me.
- Ṣé o fẹ́ lọ sí ayẹyẹ?Do you want to go to the party?
Example conversation
Morenike and Babatunde are talking about a weekend event.
- MorenikeBabatunde, ǹjẹ́ o máa lọ sí ayẹyẹ náà?Babatunde, will you go to the party?
- BabatundeBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, Morenike, mo máa lọ.Yes, Morenike, I will go.
- MorenikeA óò jẹ́ ayẹyẹ tí ó dára.It will be a good party.
- BabatundeMo nítẹ̀ sí i pé ó máayẹ!I expect it to be great!
