Kuya (en. Older brother)

koo-yah

Meaning & Definition

EnglishTagalog
noun
A term of respect for an older male sibling.
Brother Mark works abroad.
Si Kuya Mark ay nagtatrabaho sa ibang bansa.
It is also used to address older males even if they are not siblings.
Thank you, older brother, for your help.
Salamat, Kuya, sa tulong mo.

Etymology

From the Tagalog language, used as a term of respect or to refer to an older male sibling.

Common Phrases and Expressions

Kuya, maaari mo ba akong tulungan?
Asking for help from an older male.
Kuya, can you help me?

Related Words

sibling
Common term used for a sibling, whether male or female.
kapatid
siblings
Refers to more than one sibling, either male or female.
mga kapatid

Slang Meanings

A term used for an older male who is like a brother.
Hey, Kuya! What's your story?
Hey, Kuya! Ano kwento mo?
A pet name for close male friends.
Wow, you're so sweet, Kuya.
Grabe, ang sweet mo pala, Kuya.
A term used by children for older kids or adults.
Kuya, can you help me?
Kuya, pwede mo ba akong tulungan?