taele
The Samoan word for "washing" is taele.
taele is used to refer to the action of the verb "to wash".
Meaning: action of the verb "to wash" (noun)
Did you know?
- Because Samoan uses a system of fine distinctions for different types of cleansing, using taele for a ritualistic purification might sound overly mundane to a native speaker.
- In Samoan, the way you specify what is being washed often changes the verb used, so 'washing' clothes might use a different grammatical structure than 'washing' oneself.
- In certain village contexts, the concept of washing or bathing is closely tied to social ritual and cleanliness protocols that go beyond simple hygiene.
Example conversation
Manu and Talisa are talking about chores at home.
- ManuTalisa, ua mae'a le taele?Talisa, is the washing finished?
- TalisaLeai Manu, o lo'o ou faia lava.No Manu, I am still doing it.
- ManuE te mana'omia se fesoasoani?Do you need some help?
- TalisaIa fa'afetai, ae ua leva.Thank you, but it is almost done.
