a’nó:wara
The Mohawk word for turtle is a’nó:wara.
The term refers to a land or marine reptile with a shell.
Meaning: land or marine reptile with a shell (noun)
Did you know?
- In many Haudenosaunee traditions, the turtle is not just an animal but is seen as the very foundation of the world, often referred to as 'Turtle Island' to describe North America.
- The physical structure of a turtle shell is sometimes compared to the structure of Haudenosaunee government, symbolizing unity and protection for all members.
- Unlike English, which uses the same word for all turtles, some Iroquoian languages use distinct terms to differentiate between water turtles and tortoises.
Examples in context
- A’nó:wara i’onon’tá’.The turtle is moving.
- A’nó:wara kátá’.The turtle is small.
Example conversation
Kari and Tekakwitha are walking by a pond.
- KariTekakwitha, i’sa a’nó:wara!Tekakwitha, look at that turtle!
- TekakwithaHe’ hihonó:ra’?Is it swimming?
- KariOnatshionote ra’si a’nó:wara.That big turtle is walking.
- TekakwithaKanyatohraton.It is very slow.
