asatapai

Wauja

Pronunciation

• IPA^(key): /aˈsa.ta.paɪ/

Verb

asatapai

1. (transitive) he/she/it shows, reveals (someone or something)

   Maniu, maka nasata piyu papapala.

   Come over here, so I can show you your gift.

   Pasatatain nu.

   Show me a little [let me have a peek].

   Kamani pasatuapai, tune?

   Why are you showing yourself, my dear girl?

   Katsa itsapai okaintsityu? Aitsa autapai. Aitsa asatapai.

   Q: What is [he] thinking? (lit., What is it like in his gut?). A: We don't know. [He] doesn't reveal [his thoughts].

2. (transitive) he/she/it presents, indicates, displays (someone or something)

   Aitsa minya asatawa, aitsa atukutakonaha, aitsa atukutakonaha. Aitsa minya amunauntsa ha.

   If [the principal chief] had not formally presented [his younger brother], people would not have accepted [the younger brother as co-chief], people would not have accepted [him]. [He] wouldn't have been made chief.

3. (transitive) he/she/it shows, exhibits (puts on a display, performs an act for the sole purpose of display)

   Aitsa onaankai yajo. Asatatai.

   It's not a real ceremony. It's only for show.

   [Comment made as some Wauja were performing a brief dance as a way of welcoming some non-indigenous guests].

Usage notes

• Re: "kamani pasatuapai" — In the 1980s, it was still common for Wauja adolescents to undergo a period of puberty seclusion in their own homes. This rite of passage ensured that the developing young adult would become strong, beautiful, and self-possessed. Elders would frequently remind the young person in seclusion to stay indoors and avoid being seen in public.

Antonyms

• ehejepei (hides)

Derived terms

• asatuapai (shows him/her/itself)

References

• "Aitsa minya asatawa" uttered by Aruta, storyteller and elder, recounting Wauja history in the presence of his son and nephew. Recorded in Piyulaga village by E. Ireland, 4/25/96, transcript page 2.
• "Kamani pasatuapai" confirmed by Wakupiya's youngest son via Facebook IM with E. Ireland, 10/20/2014.