x̲e’óthel máqa

X̲e’óthel máqa means ‘four years old’‘. Literally it means ‘four snows’.

Pronunciation

Sounds like huh-OTH-ull MACK-ah, except instead of an h the first sound is the Halq’eméylem hard-x (x̲), and instead of a CK you say the Halq’eméylem q (with the tongue touching back to your uvula).

Audio: Elizabeth Herrling

Structure

• x̲e’óthel – four
• máqa – snow(s) (refers to fallen snow, not snow still in the air; also pronounced máqe).

The basis for using ‘snows’ for years is that each winter marks one yearly cycle.