foha
The Tongan word for 'son' is foha.
The word foha is a noun used to describe a male person in relation to his parents.
Meaning: a male person in relation to his parents (noun)
Did you know?
- In high-ranking Tongan families, describing a 'son' requires a specialized vocabulary that is entirely different from the everyday language used by commoners.
- In many Polynesian languages, including Tongan, the concept of a 'son' is deeply intertwined with the concept of 'inheritance', not just of names but of specific spiritual mana or prestige.
- When discussing a 'son' in a formal oratorical context, Tongan speakers may use highly specialized, poetic language that avoids the common word foha entirely.
Example conversation
Mele and Akuila are talking about family photos.
- MeleKo pehe foha 'eni?Which son is this?
- AkuilaKo e foha na'áku 'eni.This is my son.
- MeleKo e foha mata'aki ia.He is a handsome son.
- AkuilaMalo, Mele.Thank you, Mele.
