hatamu
hah-TAH-moo
How to say it
Swahilihatamuhah-TAH-moo
Frenchrênes ; contrôle, direction
Meaning
The straps used to guide a horse or donkey; in everyday use it stands for power or control over a group, a country or a market.
Good to know
N class noun, usually plural in sense: kushika hatamu or kuchukua hatamu is to take charge, and hatamu za uongozi are the reins of leadership.
Examples
- Kocha mpya amechukua hatamu za timu.The new coach has taken charge of the team.
- Chama hicho kimeshika hatamu tangu uhuru.That party has held power since independence.
- Alishika hatamu za farasi kwa nguvu.He held the horse’s reins tightly.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.