Meaning of omwami, a popular Luhya word. Learn origin, find synonyms and variations from different Luhya dialects, and links to stories to deepen your cultural understanding.
OMWAMI
noun
plural: abami
variations: mwami (Maragoli dialect)
informal:
Translation, definition and meaning of omwami
- Your boss i.e your employer, sponsor or benefactor.
- A supreme leader, king or royalty.
- An elected leader.
- A respected figure in whichever field.
- Your husband – as in ‘your king‘.
- A resourceful person such as a wealthy person, influential magnet or one with deep networks. This Luhya word is also used as:
- a greeting or salutation;
- a way to identify a Luhya or something relating to Luhya;
- an expression of gratitude i.e thank you.
Synonyms for omwami
(O)musakhulu
Kutalang’i
Emboko
Omukhongo
Omukhulundu
Origin
Luhya language; the word is common across the 18 Luhya dialects. In the 2010’s the popularity of this word increased becoming part of informal Kenyan speak. Recently we came across a supposition that the word omwami is of Maragoli origin (see related articles below).
Related articles on meaning of omwami in Luhya culture
- What is the meaning of omwami? We explore contemporary meanings of the title omwami in all its shades in the article ‘Meaning of omwani in Luhya: Revealing 9 different interpretations, some you know, most you don’t, from the respect due to a king to humble gratitude.’
- What is the origin of omwami? Join us as this journey of ifs and maybes in the article ‘Digging out the trail of origin of omwami: A lost kingdom, slaves and God King of the Maragoli.’
