Swahili · Food & Drink
chai
Tea
Beginnernoun
Definition
Spiced milky tea, the daily drink of East Africa.
Example
Tunakunywa chai ya maziwa kila asubuhi.
We drink milky tea every morning.
Etymology
'Chai' is borrowed from the Chinese word '茶' (chá), which means tea. The term reflects the trade routes and cultural exchanges between Africa and Asia.
How & Where It’s Used
'Chai' is used in both informal and formal contexts, as well as in written recipes and menus. It's commonly associated with social gatherings and hospitality.
Literary Heritage
It appears in various literary works, often symbolizing comfort and social unity during communal gatherings.