oheneba
The Twi word for princess is oheneba.
The term is used to describe a female member of a royal family.
Meaning: female member of royal family (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word oheneba is a compound of ohen, which means king and ba, which means child, literally translating to "child of a king".
How does it change in a sentence?
The term oheneba is gender-neutral and can be used to refer to either a princess or a prince.
Did you know?
- In many Akan cultures, the concept of royalty is often matrilineal. This means that an oheneba's status and claim to the throne might be traced through their mother rather than their father.
- An oheneba may be given a 'soul name' based on the day of the week she was born, which is often used alongside her royal title.
- Because oheneba literally means 'child of a king', the word is also used metaphorically to describe someone born into wealth or high social status, even if they have no actual royal blood.
Examples in context
- Akwaaba, Ohemaa.Welcome, princess.
- Oheneba no yɛ fɛ.The princess is beautiful.
- Oheneba no kɔ sukuu.The princess goes to school.
Example conversation
Afia and Kwesi are discussing a local festival.
- AfiaKwesi, wo ahu oheneba no?Kwesi, have you seen the princess?
- KwesiDabi, ɔwɔ he?No, where is she?
- AfiaOheneba no wɔ palace mu.The princess is in the palace.
- KwesiKyerɛ me kwan ma me kɔ.Show me the way so I can go.
