Discovering Uncommon Ilocano Words
The Ilocano language is full of unique words that many people might not know. While some words are widely recognized, there are plenty of lesser-known ones that reveal the culture and traditions of the Ilocano people. In this blog, we'll explore some of these rare Ilocano words and their meanings, giving you a deeper look into this rich language.
1. Lus•sok (Hole) - a hollow place in a solid body or surface. Example: Apay adda metten lussok sapin kon.? (Why does my pants have a hole?)
2. Ub•leng (Wanting to poop) - an urgent feeling that you need to have a bowel movement, even if you just had one. Example: Apan ak man banyo ta maka-ububleng akun. (I will go the comfort room because I want to poop.)
3. Is•ku•dil•ya (Cup) - a small bowl-shaped container for drinking from, typically having a handle. Example: Agala ka man duwwa nga iskudilya ken danum. (Can you get two cups with water.)
4. Gim•gem (Fist) - a hand that is tightly closed with the fingers bent into the palm and the thumb pressed against the fingers. Example: Maramanam ti gimgem ko nu madi ka paylang tumalna. (You'll taste my fist if you don't stop.)
5. Kan•sur•sil•yo (Brief) - a type of short, form-fitting underwear and swimwear. Example: Nilabaak atuy kansursilyok tanu adda usarek nu bigat. ( I washed my briefs so I can use them tomorrow.)
5. Ra•em (Respect) - a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicted by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. Example: Pagraraeman ka gamin nasingpet ken nagaget ka. (I respect you because you are kind and hardworking.)
6. Im•mu•ko (Knife) - an instrument composed of a blade fixed into a handle, used for cutting or as a weapon. Example: Nasugat ak tattay ti immuko gamin madi ak nagannad idi ag lutluto nak. (I was injured by a knife earlier because I wasn't careful while I was cooking.)
7. Na•sa•et (Determined) - having a strong resolve or commitment to dedicate oneself to something. Example: Nakaala iti nangato nga puntos tay anak ko gamin nasaet isuna agadal. (My child got high scores because he was determined to study.)
8. Ba•ta•ris (Working for nothing) - to work without receiving any compensation or payment for your labor.
Example: Nagpa ayab iti pabataris ni kapitan idiay purok mi gamin nag dirraas daga idi napalapas nga bagyo. (The barangay captain request for workers to work without compensation in our street because of the landslide after the recent typhoon.)
9. Pa•sa•dor (Sanitary Napkin) - a disposable pad that absorbs menstrual blood.
Example: Inka man gatangak nak ti pasador. (Go buy me some sanitary napkins.)
10. Taraki (Handsome) - a good-looking man.
Example: Nataraki nga lalaki ni Allan. (Allan is a handsome man.)
We hope this blog has inspired you to incorporate more Ilocano words into your daily conversations. Speaking Ilocano connects you to a rich culture and tradition. To start using these words with confidence, check out this helpful guide on speaking and using Ilocano words. Happy watching!