ndox
/ndɔx/
The English word "water" is translated into Wolof as ndox.
The term ndox refers to the inorganic compound H₂O.
Meaning: inorganic compound H₂O (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/ndɔx/
Did you know?
- Offering a guest ndox is not just a gesture of hydration, but a significant social ritual that can serve as a formal peace offering in traditional settings.
- The pronunciation of ndox involves a heavy 'd' sound that is not a full syllable, making it sound almost like a single compressed nasal sound to English ears. This is a common phonetic feature in many Niger-Congo languages.
- The pre-nasalized consonant 'nd' at the start of ndox is a distinctive marker found across the Atlantic branch of the Niger-Congo language family.
Examples in context
- Dama bëgg ndox.I want water.
- Ndox bi neex na.The water is good/tasty.
Example conversation
At home in the afternoon, Astou is thirsty.
- AstouModou, ndox dama bëgg.Modou, I want water.
- ModouAm na ndox ci teessi bi.There is water in the fridge.
- AstouJërëjëf, ndox bi neex na lool.Thank you, the water is very good.
- ModouLoolu baax na, Astou.That is good, Astou.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “water” translations and entries ndox, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
