ọmọ-ọba
The Yoruba word for prince is ọmọ-ọba.
This noun refers to a son or male-line grandson of a reigning monarch.
Meaning: son or male-line grandson of a reigning monarch (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is a compound of ọmọ, meaning child and ọba, meaning king.
Did you know?
- The term ọmọ-ọba is frequently used in modern Nigerian slang to describe someone who acts entitled or behaves as if they are superior to others.
- The word ọmọ in ọmọ-ọba is gender-neutral, meaning the term for 'prince' is built from a word that can mean either 'son' or 'daughter'.
- In certain historical Yoruba contexts, calling someone ọmọ-ọba could be used as a respectful way to address a very talented or 'noble' person who is not actually royalty.
Examples in context
- Wọ́n sọ pé ọmọ-ọba náà fẹ́ lọ sí ilé ìwé.They said the prince wants to go to school.
Example conversation
Femi and Yejide are discussing a royal visit.
- FemiYejide, ǹjẹ́ o rí ọmọ-ọba náà?Yejide, did you see the prince?
- YejideBẹ́ẹ̀ ni, ó wà ní àgbàlà.Yes, he is in the palace.
- Femiǩí ni ọmọ-ọba yẹn fẹ́ ṣe?What does that prince want to do?
- YejideÓ fẹ́ sọ̀rọ̀ pẹ̀lú àwọn èèyàn.He wants to speak with the people.
