Swahili
askari
ah-SKAH-ree
How to say it
Swahiliaskariah-SKAH-reesoon
Englishsoldier, guardsoon
Frenchsoldat, gardesoon
Meaning
A person whose job is to protect people or property, such as a soldier, police officer, or security guard.
Good to know
Askari is a broad term covering soldiers, police officers, and watchmen; the exact meaning depends on context, as in askari wa usiku (night guard) or askari wa jeshi (soldier).
Examples
- Askari alisimama mlangoni usiku kucha.The guard stood at the door all night.
- Je, askari huyo anafanya kazi hapa?Does that guard work here?
- Askari hawakuruhusu gari kuingia.The guards did not allow the car to enter.
- Askari watafika baada ya dakika kumi.The guards will arrive in ten minutes.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.