mtwana

How to say it

Meaning

historically, a young slave; more generally, a rascal or ill-mannered person.

Good to know

The slavery sense is historical; today the word is mainly an insult meaning a rude or uncouth person.

Examples

• Usiwe mtwana, mheshimu mzee.Don't be a rascal, respect the elder.
• Zamani watwana waliuzwa sokoni.In the past, young slaves were sold in the market.
• Kwa nini unamwita mtwana, amekukosea nini?Why do you call him a rascal, what has he done to you?
• Alifanya kama mtwana asiye na adabu.He behaved like an ill-mannered lout.