Somali

[ soh-mah-lee, suh- ]

noun

plural Somalis, (especially collectively) Somali

1. a member of a people speaking a Cushitic language and living primarily in Somalia, Somaliland, and adjacent regions.
2. the Cushitic language of the Somali ethnic group.

adjective

1. of or relating to Somalia, its people, or their language.
2. of or relating to the Somali ethnic group or their language.

Somali

/ səʊˈmɑːlɪ /

noun

1. -lis-li a member of a tall dark-skinned people inhabiting Somalia
2. the language of this people, belonging to the Cushitic subfamily of the Afro-Asiatic family of languages

adjective

1. of, relating to, or characteristic of Somalia, the Somalis, or their language

Word History and Origins

Origin of Somali¹

First recorded in 1800–10 as Samaulies (plural); from Somali Soomaali, a self-designation

Example Sentences

"We welcome Starlink's entry to Somalia. This initiative aligns with our vision to deliver affordable and accessible internet services to all Somalis, regardless of where they live," Technology Minister Mohamed Adam Moalim Ali said.

From BBC

After the BBC questioned his reasoning - citing opposition from numerous Somali Islamic scholars - Sheikh Mahmoud maintained that he would not abandon the marriage.

From BBC

Eighteen American soldiers lost their lives in the fighting that began on 3 October, but so did hundreds of Somalis.

From BBC

In October 1993, Aidid's forces shot down two Black Hawk helicopters, killing 18 American soldiers and causing hundreds of Somali casualties — the scenario depicted in the book and film “Black Hawk Down.”

From Salon

Puntland's counter-terrorism approach is different from that of the national Somali government, with which it cut ties in March last year.

From BBC