Luo’s are a creative lot and which has widely embraced the changing times. Consequently, they just like all other communities have their own slang.
Here are some of the words they use to represent others that might appear alarming or embarrassing.
GONYA
Its derived from the word ‘Gonyo’ which translates to ‘releasing’ or ‘untying’ in Luo, but has since acquired a new meaning, especial among the youth of Luo Nyanza. It’s now a word used to politely request for handouts from politicians and guests without really looking like they are begging for money.
NINDO
The word’s original meaning is ‘sleeping’. However, it’s now being used as the other word for ‘dead’ and give it a better name, which also camouflages it from parties that would rather be left in the dark, like children.
OPEK
This word whose originally translates to ‘heavy’ has over time acquired more meanings, and is now used to refer to a pregnancy. At times, it can be used to portray a person as notorious and to indicate that they are stubborn in their bad ways and are not to be messed with.
WUOK GI DHOK
This is one of the most popular Luo sheng’s in Nyanza villages, and is used as a protest when one visits another person’s house and leave’s hungry. Its meant to show that the user was not welcomed for a meal where they are coming from.