Trini Phrase: Kunumunu

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The word of the week is a compilation of  Trinidadian sayings -phrases and words- used on the island and kunumunu is one of them.

  • Kunumunu, coonoomoonoo,cunumunu (n):  A fool; simpleton; someone easily deceived or taken advantage of. /kunumunu/  (possibly Yoruba kunun, kunu ‘shy; no self-confident’; possibly Hindi and/or Bhojpuri cunuh munuh ‘little baby’.

The various words and phrases from Trinidad & Tobago can be traced back to English, French and Spanish origins. Mother-giver is one such word that has its roots in the English language. Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago is interesting because the slangs can change over time. I have lived in the United States for 20 years now, and every time I travel back to Trinidad and Tobago, I have to reacquaint myself with the words and phrases that have evolved.

Kunumunu & Oral Traditions

Trini phrases such as Fada and Obzocky are an oral tradition meant to pass on the stories to the next generation. Other Trini phrases in the vernacular are Bad John, Mother Giver, Eat and Wipe Mouth Like Fowl.

Click here now for other Trini expressions and leave us a comment below of phrases you have heard.


Source: Dictionary of the English/Creole of Trinidad & Tobago by Lise Winer

Featured Image by  Levi Saunders on Unsplash

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4 thoughts on “Trini Phrase: Kunumunu”

  1. sharlamennell – I started this blog to share my thoughts on issues affecting my country. After starting this blog I have gone through sone major life changes and I had to take a break from writing to assess my thoughts, actions and beliefs. I was recently inspired to write again and will now include everyday issues and challenges that we all face at some point in our lives. I believe it is important to share their thoughts in a constructive manner that may inspire, help and/or motivate others. This will allow for stimulating conversation geared towards making is the best versions of ourselves.

    Love the Trini language lessons

    1. Kirt Morris – I am a traveller, wanna be foodie, soccer fanatic and budding blogger with 18 years of experience in the information technology and marketing technology space. Originally from Trinidad & Tobago, now sheltering in place in Maryland, USA.

      Thanks. Hope it’s helpful and useful on your next trip to Trinidad!

      1. sharlamennell – I started this blog to share my thoughts on issues affecting my country. After starting this blog I have gone through sone major life changes and I had to take a break from writing to assess my thoughts, actions and beliefs. I was recently inspired to write again and will now include everyday issues and challenges that we all face at some point in our lives. I believe it is important to share their thoughts in a constructive manner that may inspire, help and/or motivate others. This will allow for stimulating conversation geared towards making is the best versions of ourselves.

        I’m sure it will

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