YORUBA ROOTS IN ENGLISH: UNVEILING THE LINGUISTIC LEGACY- BY ABIODUN MOSHOOD

Word-formation is a concept in linguistics that studies the patterns of forming new lexical units in a language. Like every other language, new words are formed virtually daily in the English language. However, some processes through which new words emerge are unknown to non-linguists.

The English language has been in Nigeria for over a century, becoming a permanent feature of the country's linguistic diversity. English belongs to the Germanic language family and the Indo-European branch, differing significantly from Nigerian languages. As a result, English's linguistic features are radically different from those of Nigerian languages.

Most Nigerian users of English acquire the language through formal education, as it is the official medium of instruction beyond primary school. English is learned as a second language by most Nigerians and as a third language by some. This means that most English learners in Nigeria have already acquired linguistic ability in at least one Nigerian language, usually their mother tongue.

The English language was introduced to Nigeria by British colonizers during the colonial era. Nigeria belongs to the Outer Circle, which was primarily perpetuated through British colonial expansion into Asia and Africa. The inhabitants of this circle do not have English as a native tongue but utilize it as a communicative facilitator, making it a useful lingua franca between linguistic communities. Countries in the Outer Circle include Kenya, Tanzania, India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Philippines, Nigeria, and others.

The Yoruba language, spoken by the Yoruba tribe in Nigeria's western region, has gained global recognition. Originating from Oyo, Yoruba is now spoken in countries like Benin Republic and Brazil, contributing to its popularity worldwide. Additionally, some Yoruba words have been incorporated into the English dictionary.

The English language has adopted numerous words from other languages, with borrowing being a common source of new words. Borrowing involves adopting words from other languages, often due to cultural exchange or lexical gaps. This occurs when one language lacks vocabulary to express concepts present in another. Words like "Agbada," "Garri," "Buba," "Amala," and "Adire" are now part of the English dictionary.

"Agbada" is a traditional Yoruba attire for men, worn on special occasions like weddings and festivals. "Buba" is another Yoruba traditional attire worn by both men and women. "Amala" is a traditional Yoruba meal made from yam or cassava flour, often served with "gbegiri" and "ewedu." "Garri" is a popular Yoruba food made from cassava tubers, which can be consumed by soaking it in water with sugar and milk or used to make "eba" with "ewedu" or "okra soup." Lastly, "Adire" is a traditional Yoruba textile art known for its unique patterns, cultural significance, and artistic expression.

In summary, the Yoruba language has gained significant recognition globally, with students in some countries now studying Yoruba. It's commendable that a Nigerian language is becoming recognized worldwide, and the Yoruba language will likely continue to expand across countries.

© ABIODUN MOSHOOD O. (AMO)

- Nigeria