Ika Meaning in Yoruba

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“Ika” is a Yoruba word with multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Let’s delve into its various meanings and how it is applied in the Yoruba language:

1. Finger

One of the primary meanings of “ika” is a finger. This usage is straightforward and is a common word in everyday conversation when referring to the digits on a human hand.

  • Example Sentence:
    • “Ọmọ naa f’ika rẹ́ tọ́kasi ọ̀nà náà” (The child pointed at the road with his finger).

2. Wickedness or Cruelty

“Ika” can also mean wickedness or cruelty. This usage often describes a person’s character or actions that are considered harsh, unkind, or malevolent.

  • Example Sentence:
    • “Ìwà ika rẹ̀ kó àwọn ọ̀rẹ́ rẹ̀ lọ́” (His wicked behavior drove his friends away).
    • “Ó ṣe ika sí mi” (He/she was wicked to me).

3. An Informal Unit of Measurement

In some informal contexts, “ika” is used to describe a rough measure, often based on the span of one’s fingers or hands. This usage is less common but still relevant in traditional or rural settings.

  • Example Sentence:
    • “Ika mẹ́rin ni gùn” (It is four finger-widths long).

Practical Examples in Sentences

Here are some sentences that show the versatility of “ika” in Yoruba:

  1. Finger:
    • “Mo ti f’ika mi túkọ̀wé” (I have written with my finger).
    • “Àwọn ika mi dun mi” (My fingers hurt).
  2. Wickedness or Cruelty:
    • “Ìka rẹ̀ dá inú mi bí” (His/her cruelty made me angry).
    • “Kí lo dé tó fi ṣe ika bẹ́ẹ̀?” (Why was he/she so wicked?).
  3. Informal Unit of Measurement:
    • “Nígun ilẹ̀ wọn tó àwọn ika mẹ́ta” (The width of their land is about three fingers).
    • “F’ika mẹ́rin wo, máa ri i pé ó to” (Measure with four fingers, you will see it is enough).

Understanding Yoruba with Translingua

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