kupaka
koo-PAH-kah
How to say it
Swahilikupakakoo-PAH-kah
Englishto apply, to smear, to rub on; to paint
Frenchappliquer, enduire, étaler; peindre
Meaning
To spread something soft or liquid over a surface, such as oil or cream on the skin, butter on bread or paint on a wall.
Good to know
What is spread follows directly and the surface follows on or with a locative: kupaka rangi ukuta, to paint a wall; kupaka mafuta, to rub on oil. The passive is kupakwa.
Examples
- Mama alinipaka mafuta baada ya kuoga.Mother rubbed oil on me after my bath.
- Tutapaka nyumba rangi mpya mwezi ujao.We will paint the house a new color next month.
- Usisahau kupaka dawa kwenye kidonda.Do not forget to apply the ointment to the wound.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.