Swahili
mhimili
m-hi-MI-li
How to say it
Swahilimhimilim-hi-MI-lisoon
Englishbeam, axissoon
Frenchpoutre, axesoon
Meaning
a supporting post, beam, or axis; something that bears the weight of or holds up something else, as in mhimili wa dunia, 'the earth's axis'.
Good to know
in the mi- class (mihimili) it means a physical support or axis; in the wa- class (wahimili) it instead names a long-suffering, patient person.
Examples
- Mhimili wa dunia hupitia ncha ya kaskazini na kusini.The earth's axis passes through the North and South poles.
- Nguzo hii ni mhimili mkuu wa jengo.This pillar is the main support beam of the building.
- Je, mhimili wa daraja umedhoofika?Has the bridge's support beam weakened?
- Babu ni mhimili wa uvumilivu katika familia yetu.Grandfather is a pillar of patience in our family.
Not yet checked by a native speaker.