Light Candle (phr): Perform an OBEAH ritual involving the lighting of a candle, in order to do harm to someone = put light.

If another Trinidadian tells you they will light a candle for you, it’s time to reconsider that friendship and get protection from spiritual powers such as obeah. The various words and Trini phrases from Trinidad & Tobago can be traced back to English, French and Spanish origins.

Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago is interesting because the slangs can change over time. I have lived in the United States for 20 years now, and every time I travel back to Trinidad and Tobago, I have to reacquaint myself with the words and phrases that have evolved.

Trini folklore such as Papa Bois is an oral tradition meant to pass on the stories to the next generation. Other Trini phrases in the vernacular are Sancoche, Kaka-Nay, Rum Jumbie.

Click here now for other Trini expressions and leave us a comment below of phrases you have heard.

Source: Dictionary of the English/Creole of Trinidad & Tobago by Lise Winer

Photo by David Monje on Unsplash

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