Wela'lin is a word from the Mi'kmaq language, spoken by the Mi'kmaq people of Eastern Canada, particularly in the Atlantic provinces and Gaspé Peninsula.
Meaning:
- "Thank you" (singular): This is the most common translation used when expressing gratitude to one person.
- "We are all one" or "We are together": This conveys a sense of unity and connection.
Part of Speech: Verb (animate transitive)
Pronunciation:
we-la-lin (Listen to pronunciations on these resources: https://www.mikmaqonline.org/ or https://www.afnts.ca/mikmaw/dashboard or https://www.mikmaqonline.org/Ta'n%20Tala'ql%20Mi'gmawe'l.html)
You can also [Listen to it!] (https://www.mikmaqonline.org/words/wela'lin.wav)
Additional Notes:
- Wela'lin can also be used in a broader sense to express the sentiment of "I do well by you" or "acting in a good way towards someone."
- Related words in Mi'kmaq:
- Wela'latl: translates to "to please" or "do well by" someone.
- Wela'luet: means "charitable" or "pleases" someone.
Using Wela'lin:
- If you're looking for a way to express gratitude in the Mi'kmaq language, Wela'lin is a good choice for thanking one person.
- However, be mindful of the cultural context and avoid using it inappropriately if your intention is not to express thanks or unity.