Swahili
marahaba
ma-ra-HA-ba
How to say it
Swahilimarahabama-ra-HA-basoon
Englishgreeting replysoon
Frenchréponse de salutationsoon
Meaning
the traditional reply given to the respectful greeting "shikamoo".
Good to know
fixed response said by an elder to a younger person as acknowledgment of their respect.
Examples
- Mtoto alisema shikamoo, naye babu akajibu marahaba.The child said shikamoo, and grandfather replied marahaba.
- Shikamoo mwalimu! Marahaba, karibu darasani.Greetings teacher! Marahaba, welcome to class.
- Kila ninapomsalimu bibi, hunijibu marahaba kwa tabasamu.Whenever I greet grandma, she replies marahaba with a smile.
- Je, unajua wakati gani wa kusema marahaba?Do you know when to say marahaba?
Not yet checked by a native speaker.