How to Say “Shut Up” in Navajo

By Douglas Juan • Updated October 1, 2026

kʼéhéshkéez

The Navajo phrase for "shut up" is kʼéhéshkéez.

This phrase is used to command someone to stop talking.

Meaning: "Stop talking." (intj)

Did you know?

In many Navajo communities, using a direct command like this can be perceived as much more aggressive or confrontational than the English 'shut up' due to cultural emphasis on respect.
The way the phrase is articulated involves 'ejective' sounds, which are produced by a burst of air from the glottis, a mechanism not found in standard English.
Navajo is an agglutinative language, meaning kʼéhéshkéez is not a series of separate words but a complex structure where several meanings are fused into one long word.

Example conversation

Justin is trying to study while Michelle keeps talking.

Justin

Michelle, kʼéhéshkéez.
Michelle, shut up.
Michelle

Dááshį́į́d!
I am just talking!
Justin

Tʼáá áéí tʼééʼ, kʼéhéshkéez.
That is enough, shut up.
Michelle

Haneʼ aheelʼį́į́d.
I will be quiet.

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About The Author

Douglas Juan

Hello, I am Douglas, an absolute Navajo language enthusiast. My passion for this beautiful language, coupled with my love for sharing knowledge, has inspired me to write numerous guides on common phrases and words. I enjoy exploring words from "Angel" to "Yucca" and everything in between. In my leisure time, you'll often find me experimenting with traditional Navajo recipes, strolling amidst nature, or enjoying a robust cup of traditional Navajo tea. Apache is spoken not far from Navajo, and it has become another language close to my heart, so you will now find my guides to Apache here too. Haash yinilyeii (that's how I say 'that's me' in Navajo)!

Douglas JuanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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