Trini Phrase: Kunumunu

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’.

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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.

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

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