Wauja

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Pronunciation

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Verb

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asatapai

  1. (transitive) he/she/it shows, reveals (someone or something)
    Maniu, maka nasata piyu papapala.
    Come over here, so I can show you your gift.
    Pasatatain nu.
    Show me a little [let me have a peek].
    Kamani pasatuapai, tune?
    Why are you showing yourself, my dear girl?
    Katsa itsapai okaintsityu? Aitsa autapai. Aitsa asatapai.
    Q: What is [he] thinking? (lit., What is it like in his gut?). A: We don't know. [He] doesn't reveal [his thoughts].
  2. (transitive) he/she/it presents, indicates, displays (someone or something)
    Aitsa minya asatawa, aitsa atukutakonaha, aitsa atukutakonaha. Aitsa minya amunauntsa ha.
    If [the principal chief] had not formally presented [his younger brother], people would not have accepted [the younger brother as co-chief], people would not have accepted [him]. [He] wouldn't have been made chief.
  3. (transitive) he/she/it shows, exhibits (puts on a display, performs an act for the sole purpose of display)
    Aitsa onaankai yajo. Asatatai.
    It's not a real ceremony. It's only for show.
    [Comment made as some Wauja were performing a brief dance as a way of welcoming some non-indigenous guests].

Usage notes

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  • Re: "kamani pasatuapai" — In the 1980s, it was still common for Wauja adolescents to undergo a period of puberty seclusion in their own homes. This rite of passage ensured that the developing young adult would become strong, beautiful, and self-possessed. Elders would frequently remind the young person in seclusion to stay indoors and avoid being seen in public.

Antonyms

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Derived terms

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References

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  • "Aitsa minya asatawa" uttered by Aruta, storyteller and elder, recounting Wauja history in the presence of his son and nephew. Recorded in Piyulaga village by E. Ireland, 4/25/96, transcript page 2.
  • "Kamani pasatuapai" confirmed by Wakupiya's youngest son via Facebook IM with E. Ireland, 10/20/2014.