MEDICAL TERMINOLOGIES IN IGBO LANGUAGE

ABSTRACT

The study focuses on the semantic analysis of medical terminologies in Igbo language. It aims to describe different medical terminologies that are used in Igbo medical system that reflects and shapes the culture and identity of the Igbo people. Through qualitative data collection methods, including oral interview of Igbo native speakers, the study gathers primary and basic data for analysis and secondary data collection from various online articles. Data analysis employs qualitative approach utilizing linguistic tools such as phonetic and semantic analysis. The Dixon’s Basic Linguistic Theory (2010) was employed for the analysis of the data, the findings reveals a variety of medical terms and body parts in the Igbo language with distinct linguistic features that set them apart from their English equivalents, they are deeply rooted in Igbo language, with unique phonetic, phonological, and tonal characteristics. The study concludes that Igbo medical terminology not only enriches our understanding of language but also deepens our appreciation for the cultural and spiritual dimensions of health within Igbo culture. By embracing these terms, we honor the heritage of the Igbo people and strive for more inclusive and culturally sensitive healthcare practice. The study recommends that these different medical terms should be taught to people, documented, integrated into the educational system and the contexts taken into consideration so as to create awareness for the younger generation and avoid language endangerment.