viku
The Tongan word for 'wet' is viku.
viku is an adjective used to describe an object that is covered with or impregnated with liquid.
Meaning: of an object: covered with or impregnated with liquid (adj)
Did you know?
- Tongan is a VSO language, meaning the verb often comes first, which changes the rhythmic emphasis when saying something 'is wet' compared to English.
- While English uses 'wet' to describe everything from a sponge to a person, Tongan speakers may use different nuances depending on whether the object is drenched or merely damp.
- In Tongan, the word for 'wet' can be modified by particles to indicate whether the object is 'becoming wet' or 'has always been wet'.
Example conversation
Ana and Akuila are coming inside after a rain shower.
- AnaAkuila, kuo viku ‰a ho'o hāʻu.Akuila, your hat is wet.
- AkuilaʻOku koi, na'e tō ‰a e ʻuha.It's okay, it was raining.
- AnaTau kumi ha tau'ālele.Let's look for some towels.
- AkuilaMālō, Ana.Thanks, Ana.
