nyamin
The Luo word for sister is nyamin.
The term refers to a woman or girl who shares the same parents as the speaker.
Meaning: woman or girl having the same parents (noun)
Did you know?
- The word nyamin comes from the root min, which means 'mother', reflecting the kinship structure centered around the mother's line.
- In Luo culture, the word for 'sister' is often part of a complex system of kinship terms that change depending on whether the speaker is male or female.
- Using the term 'nyamin' to address a stranger can be a way to establish immediate trust and warmth in a communal setting.
Example conversation
Okoth is asking Akinyi about her family.
- AkinyiOkoth, nyamin ana osetie.Okoth, my sister has arrived.
- OkothNyamin ana anyalo neno?Can I see your sister?
- AkinyiEe, nyamin ana itie e odie.Yes, my sister is in the house.
- OkothAn gi nyamin ana kendo.I have a sister too.
