Reconstruction:Proto-Yoruboid/ɛ́-wɛ

This Proto-Yoruboid entry contains reconstructed terms and roots. As such, the term(s) in this entry are not directly attested, but are hypothesized to have existed based on comparative evidence.

Proto-Yoruboid

Etymology

Perhaps a Yoruboid innovation, but compare with Ayere ɛriyɛ, suggesting a possible Defoid origin. Most Yoruboid forms for "chicken" derived from this root.

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /ɛ́.wɛ̄/

Noun

*ɛ́-wɛ

1. bird

Descendants

• Ifè: ɛyɛ
• Igala: ẹ́wẹ
• Olukumi: ẹyẹ
• Yoruba: ẹyẹ
• Ijebu Yoruba: ẹwẹ

Derived terms

• *á-dɪ̀wɛ (“chicken”)