Swahili · Family & People
mwana
Son; child
Beginnernoun
Definition
A son or child; appears in many words like mwanafunzi, student.
Example
Mwana wao ana miaka mitano.
Their son is five years old.
Etymology
'Mwana' traces back to the Proto-Bantu term *wana, which translates to child or offspring. This term reflects the significance of lineage in Bantu cultures.
How & Where It’s Used
'Mwana' is used in both formal and informal settings, mainly in spoken language. It encompasses all children and can shift in meaning depending on context.
Literary Heritage
It appears in various stories and local folklore where lineage and family roles are central themes.