Swahili · Greetings & Phrases

karibu

Welcome; you're welcome

Beginnerinterjection

Definition

Means welcome, come in, and you're welcome — the heart of East African hospitality.

Example

Karibu nyumbani kwetu!

Welcome to our home!

Etymology

'Karibu' means 'welcome' in Kiswahili, originating from the Bantu verb 'karibisha' which signifies the act of welcoming guests, highlighting strong hospitality traditions.

How & Where It’s Used

'Karibu' is often used in both formal and informal contexts, expressing hospitality. Found frequently in spoken encounters across Swahili-speaking nations.

Watch “Welcome; you're welcome” pronunciation on YouTube
greetingpolitenessculture

Related Terms