tiyu
The Chamorro word for uncle is tiyu.
The term refers to the brother or brother-in-law of one's parent.
Meaning: brother (or brother-in-law) of someone’s parent (noun)
Did you know?
- While tiyu specifically means uncle, it is sometimes used as a respectful title for older men in the community, even if there is no blood relation.
- Chamorro kinship is traditionally matrilineal, meaning the role and influence of an tiyu may differ depending on whether he is from the mother's or father's side.
- The word tiyu is a direct loanword from the Spanish word 'tío', reflecting the long period of Spanish colonial influence in the Mariana Islands.
Examples in context
- Si Yu'us ma'åse' tåta.Thank you, uncle.
Example conversation
Theresa is talking to Jose about her family tree.
- TheresaJose, titiyu-hu yan tiyu-hu?Jose, who are my aunts and uncles?
- JoseTiyu-mu i yan i mana'agu.Your uncle is the one with the children.
- TheresaHåga tiyu-hu i yan i mana'agu?Which uncle is the one with the children?
- JoseI tiyu-mu i yan i mana'agu i yan i kåno.Your uncle with the children is the one with the American.
