Numbers in Okanagan
Nsyilxcən (n̓səl̓xcin̓)
Numbers in Okanagan follow a vigesimal (base-20) system, unique among many indigenous languages. Spoken primarily in British Columbia, Canada, by approximately 150 fluent speakers, it is part of the Salishan language family. The counting system features a combination of base-20 patterns and compound formations, making it distinct and culturally significant. Understanding the numbers in Okanagan reveals insights into their worldview and daily life, especially in trade and storytelling. This article explores the full structure of their counting system, from 1 to 100, with detailed examples and cultural context.
Number system
The Okanagan counting system is vigesimal, meaning it primarily counts in twenties. Numbers 1-9 have unique words: naqs [1], ʔasíl̓ [2], kaʔłís [3], mus [4], čilkst [5], ta̓q̓m̓kst [6], sisp̓l̓k̓ [7], tim̓ł [8], x̌əx̌n̓ut [9]. Tens are formed by combining the digit with ʔupn̓kst, such as ʔasl̓ʔúpn̓kst [20], kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst [30], and so forth. For example, 16 is ʔupn̓kst uł ta̓q̓m̓kst, combining 10 (ʔupn̓kst) with 6 (ta̓q̓m̓kst). 42 is kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst uł mus, meaning 20 plus 4, while 78 is səsp̓l̓k̓̓łʔupn̓kst uł sisp̓l̓k̓ [70 + 8]. Hundreds are formed with x̌čəčikst [100], and larger numbers are built by combining these elements, reflecting a vigesimal structure with compound formations.
Number list (28)
Counting rules
Counting from 1 to 9
Numbers 1 through 9 are unique words: naqs [1], ʔasíl̓ [2], kaʔłís [3], mus [4], čilkst [5], ta̓q̓m̓kst [6], sisp̓l̓k̓ [7], tim̓ł [8], x̌əx̌n̓ut [9]. Each has a specific word form, not derived from a base number system.
Forming Tens
Tens are formed by combining the digit word with ʔupn̓kst, e.g., 20 is ʔasl̓ʔúpn̓kst, 30 is kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst, and 40 is msłʔupn̓kst. No vowel separates the digit and the ten word, creating a compact form.
Constructing Compound Numbers
Numbers like 16 are formed by combining the ten (ʔupn̓kst) with uł and the unit: ʔupn̓kst uł ta̓q̓m̓kst (16). Similarly, 38 is kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst uł tim̓ł, combining 30 and 8. This pattern repeats for all compound numbers.
Hundreds
The word for hundred is x̌čəčikst [100]. Larger numbers are built by combining hundreds with tens and units, e.g., 142 is x̌čəčikst uł kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst uł mus (100 + 30 + 4).
Number 10
The number 10 is ʔupn̓kst, a standalone word. Numbers from 11 to 19 are formed by adding the prefix ʔupn̓kst uł before the unit, e.g., 11 is ʔupn̓kst uł naqs.
Unique features
Numbers 6-9 are formed by adding units to 10, e.g., 16 is ʔupn̓kst uł ta̓q̓m̓kst, showing a compound vigesimal pattern.
Unlike many languages, Okanagan uses a vigesimal system with no separate words for 20, but combines digits directly with ʔupn̓kst.
The formation of numbers like 42 (kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst uł mus) demonstrates a clear pattern of combining tens and units with 'uł'.
Large numbers are built systematically with hundreds and thousands, reflecting a highly regular vigesimal structure.
The language incorporates cultural elements into its counting, with specific words like x̌čəčikst for 100, which may have cultural significance.
Cultural context
The Okanagan people, primarily residing in British Columbia, Canada, have a rich cultural heritage rooted in the Salishan traditions. Their language, Nsyilxcən, is a vital part of their identity, used in storytelling, ceremonies, and daily communication. With only about 150 fluent speakers, the language is highly endangered, but revitalization efforts are ongoing. Numbers play a crucial role in trade, navigation, and cultural rituals, often linked to natural cycles and spiritual beliefs. Certain numbers may be considered auspicious or taboo, reflecting their worldview. The counting system's complexity underscores the community's deep connection to their environment and history.
Fun facts
Fact 1: The number 16 is ʔupn̓kst uł ta̓q̓m̓kst, illustrating how compound numbers are formed by combining ten with units using 'uł'.
Fact 2: Unlike decimal systems, Okanagan's vigesimal system emphasizes twenties, similar to how French counts in 'quatre-vingts' for 80.
Fact 3: The consistent pattern of forming numbers shows a highly regular vigesimal structure, with no irregularities in the examples provided.
Fact 4: The word for 100, x̌čəčikst, may derive from a cultural or historical concept of a large, complete unit, possibly linked to traditional counting or land measurement.
Fact 5: The language's method of counting up to 100 reflects a sophisticated system that can potentially extend to larger numbers, though data is limited beyond 100.
Frequently asked questions
How do you count to 10 in Okanagan?
1 is naqs, 2 is ʔasíl̓, 3 is kaʔłís, 4 is mus, 5 is čilkst, 6 is ta̓q̓m̓kst, 7 is sisp̓l̓k̓, 8 is tim̓ł, 9 is x̌əx̌n̓ut, and 10 is ʔupn̓kst.
What number base does Okanagan use?
Okanagan uses a vigesimal (base-20) system, evidenced by the formation of 20 as ʔasl̓ʔúpn̓kst, and compound numbers like 42 (kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst uł mus).
How do you say 42 in Okanagan?
42 is kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst uł mus, combining 20 (kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst) with 4 (mus) using 'uł'.
How do you say 100 in Okanagan?
100 is x̌čəčikst, a standalone word representing a large, complete unit.
How many people speak Okanagan?
Approximately 150 people speak fluently, mainly in British Columbia, Canada.
Is Okanagan related to other languages?
Yes, it belongs to the Salishan language family, specifically the Interior Salish branch.
What makes Okanagan counting unique?
Its vigesimal system, with numbers like 16 (ʔupn̓kst uł ta̓q̓m̓kst) and 42 (kaʔłl̓ʔúpn̓kst uł mus), demonstrates a highly regular and compound-based structure distinct from decimal systems.
Sources
- N̓səlx̓čin̓ 1: A Beginning Course in Colville-Okanagan Salish (2021)