We are into December and winter solstice is on its way, so in this month’s Native Word, we are pleased to share translations of “December” and “winter.” We’ve included the meaning of the words, where known. We hope you enjoy, practice and share this month’s Native words!
Benhti Kokhut’ana Kenaga’ (Lower Tanana)
December – Tach’enatht’onh
Winter – Khwyh
Deg Xinag
December Vinginh Q’inodle Chux (Big prayer month)
Winter – Xiyh
Denaakk’e (Koyukon)
December – Høyh Kk’aatl’ot Le’onee (Compact object at the far end of winter)
Winter – Huyh
Dihthâad Xt’een Iin Aanděeg’ (Tanacross)
December – Wunenh Nach’ehjedh
Winter – Xey
Dinak’i (Upper Kuskokwim)
Winter – Hwsh
Dinjii Zhuh K’yaa (Gwich’in)
December – Veegwaadhat, also Ch’atsal
Winter – Khaii
Hän
December – Sraa Tsäww Nän
Winter – Khayy
Holikachuk
Winter – Xiyh or Xuyh
Iñupiaq
December – Siqiñġiḷaq (no sunshine)
Winter – Ukiuq
Nee’aanèegn’ (Upper Tanana)
Winter – Xaiy
For more translations, view our Native word of the month archives on the Foundation website.
We also invite you to access free online language-learning lessons by signing up for Doyon Languages Online! We currently have lessons available for Benhti Kokhut’ana Kenaga’ (Lower Tanana), Denaakk’e (Koyukon), Holikachuk and Dinjii Zhuh K’yaa (Gwich’in), as well as a special set of Hän lessons based on the work of the late Isaac Juneby. All interested learners may sign up and access the courses at no charge – sign up today!