náátsʼíílid
/nɑ́ːt͡sʼíːlɪ̀t/
The English word "rainbow" is translated into Navajo as náátsʼíílid.
náátsʼíílid is used to refer to the multicolored arch seen in the sky.
Meaning: multicoloured arch in the sky (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The term is derived from a root meaning "colorful" or "multicolored" combined with a verbal suffix that indicates a specific state or characteristic.
How does it change in a sentence?
While náátsʼíílid functions as a noun in a sentence, its morphological structure is that of a verb describing the state of being multicolored.
How do you pronounce it?
/nɑ́ːtsʼíːlɪ̀t/
Did you know?
- In Navajo culture, the náátsʼíílid is not viewed merely as a weather phenomenon, but as a powerful entity or a sacred path.
- Some linguists suggest a possible connection between the word for 'rainbow', náátsʼíílid, and a root meaning 'to burn'.
- Because náátsʼíílid behaves like a verb, it can be conjugated to describe the rainbow's movement or how it changes in the sky.
Examples in context
- Náátsʼíílid haʼnaa ninítʼiʼThe rainbow is expanding across.This sentence is useful for seeing how náátsʼíílid is used to describe the movement of a rainbow.
Example conversation
Michelle and Kyle are looking at the sky after a storm.
- MichelleKyle, náátsʼíílid nihááłtah!Kyle, a rainbow is appearing for us!
- KyleÁáʼkóó, tʼáá łání łééchą́ą́ʼ!Yes, it is completely beautiful!
- MichelleNáátsʼíílid tʼáá íiyisáá.The rainbow is very bright.
- KyleHózhǫ́ǫ́ʼ tʼáá łahjí.It is just peaceful.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “rainbow” translations and entries náátsʼíílid, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries náátsʼíílid, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
