jambia
jah-MBEE-ah
How to say it
Swahilijambiajah-MBEE-ah
Englishcurved dagger
Frenchpoignard courbe
Meaning
A short dagger with a curved blade, traditionally worn at the belt by Arab and Swahili men. In crime news it is also used for any large knife used as a weapon.
Good to know
Ji/ma class: plural majambia. Also spelled jamvia.
Examples
- Majambazi walimtishia mlinzi kwa jambia.The robbers threatened the guard with a dagger.
- Polisi walikamata majambia matatu katika msako.The police seized three daggers in the raid.
- Mzee alivaa jambia kiunoni wakati wa sherehe.The old man wore a dagger at his waist during the ceremony.
Forms
Not yet checked by a native speaker.