Amasi

A Xhosa and Zulu term for thick curdled milk, also known as maas; similar to yoghurt. A traditional drink, amasi is now produced commercially.


Xhosa people would choose amasi over meat.



Nyashilitis

The ability to not stop yourself from indulging in minge (nyash).


Mono is affected by Nyashilitis



Ngudu

The 750ml or 660ml beer or cider (quart).
Can also be called Ngud (without the last u)


Yabona ng'zomosha kakhulu
Ng'zoshay'iNgud



amapakati

Xhosa plural for a chief’s counsellors. The singular is ipakati. From pachatu an ancient Babylonia word for governor.


My ancestors were amapakati of Chief Ngqika.



Skoon

Having sex without a condom.


I'm going in there skoon baba.



Gwijo

Igwijo or amagwijo are Xhosa songs that are usually sung in events such as sporting events or traditional events. They are sometimes made up on the spot.


I'm only going to that game for amagwijo.



Ukudla

Ukudla is the formal Zulu term for food.


Ngifuna ukudla kwami.
I want my food.



Tempela

To claim you can do something, or you can do it better.


Wena awitsi selo wa're tempela fela.



Born-free

In South Africa, a born-free is anyone who was born after 27 April 1994 (Freedom day).


You born-frees don't know anything about struggle.



Nton nton

Is a Xhosa term used when you don't know the name of something or the term for something. Can also be used when you don't know someone's name.


1. I had that Mc nton nton burger from Mc Donald's.
2. Mr. Nton nton from school called again.




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