📚 CULTURE HUB

Names of Relatives

Kipsigis Family Naming System

Family Naming in Kipsigis Culture

Among the Kipsigis, names used to address relatives and family members are deeply rooted in respect, relationship, and social structure.

These names are not just identifiers but expressions of honor, hierarchy, and cultural identity.

Common Family & Relative Names

  • Kapyugoi – Son-in-law (used by father-in-law)
  • Botoiten – Father-in-law (used by son-in-law)
  • Nyoiten – Brother-in-law (used by son-in-law)
  • Sandanin – Son-in-law (used by brother-in-law)
  • Umama – Maternal uncle
  • Abule – Male cousins (maternal side)
  • Mbojo – Sister’s brother
  • Senge – Respect name for paternal aunt
  • Tilya – Relative of same clan
  • Konyiteniot – Close relative (different clan)
  • Makigat – Great grandparent
  • Mochogoret – Grandparent to grandchildren
  • Korgetab-yugoi – Daughter-in-law (used by mother-in-law)
  • Iyoo – Mother-in-law (used by daughter-in-law)
  • Bamongo / Aboiyon – Father (used by son)
  • Konut – Father (used by neighbor in distress)
  • Batiem / Kogo – Grandmother
  • Chepyoset – Elderly woman (used by husband)
  • Boger – Mother-in-law (after sheep dowry)
  • Bogine – Mother-in-law (after goat dowry)
  • Bomori / Agui – Elderly man / parent
  • Batany – Grandfather (father’s side)
  • Bokwo / Botich – Grandfather (mother’s side)
  • Ornyon – Distant clan members
  • Manyun – Close clan members
  • Karuchon – Mother (used by son)
  • Iyoo – Mother (used by daughter)
  • Kwanda – Father
  • Kwompop / Kwan po – Father of
  • Kamet – Mother
  • Kametab – Mother of
  • Barnotiot – Youth
  • Neranik – Young children
  • Lakwet – Child
Cultural Insight

These names reflect deep respect, kinship, and identity within the Kipsigis community. Relationships are clearly defined, and each term carries cultural meaning and responsibility.

In Kipsigis culture, how you address someone defines your relationship and respect.

Step 7 of 13
← Names of God Livestock →