Days in Navajo Language: Complete Guide to the Week

Learn the days of the week in Navajo with pronunciations, cultural origins, and meaningful translations. Discover how Diné Bizaad adapted the seven-day week.

Understanding Days of the Week in Navajo Culture

The seven-day week is not a traditional Navajo concept. For thousands of years, the Diné people organized time through lunar cycles, seasonal changes, and natural phenomena rather than the arbitrary seven-day periods that dominate modern life. Are you curious about days in Navajo Language? Let’s dive in!

The days of the week we know today—Sunday through Saturday—were introduced to Navajo culture through Spanish colonization and later American influence, particularly through Christian missions and formal education.

Despite being an adopted concept, the Navajo language has beautifully incorporated days of the week into Diné Bizaad, creating names that reflect both cultural adaptation and linguistic creativity.

The Navajo week begins with Damóo (Sunday), a word borrowed from Spanish “Domingo,” and builds from there using Navajo numbering patterns and references to work cycles.

Learning the days of the week in Navajo offers insight into how indigenous languages adapt to new concepts while maintaining their linguistic structure and cultural identity.

These names reveal the influence of Spanish colonization, the impact of the Western work week, and the ingenious ways Navajo speakers have integrated foreign time concepts into their language.

This comprehensive guide explores all seven days of the week in Navajo, their origins, pronunciations, cultural context, and practical usage.

Whether you’re learning Navajo language, teaching bilingual students, or simply fascinated by how languages evolve and adapt, this resource provides the depth and detail you need.

Complete List of Days in Navajo

Here is the comprehensive table showing all seven days of the week in Navajo, along with their English equivalents, pronunciations, and literal meanings.

Full Days of the Week Table

English	Navajo Name	Pronunciation	Literal Meaning / Notes
Sunday	Damóo	dah-MOH	From Spanish “Domingo”
Monday	Damóo Biiskání	dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee	Sunday + one (next day after Sunday)
Tuesday	Damóo Dóó Naaki Jį́ Nidaʼanish	dah-MOH doh NAH-kee jee nida-ah-nish	Sunday + two days, “they work two days”
Wednesday	Damóo Dóó Tááʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish	dah-MOH doh TAH jee nida-ah-nish	Sunday + three days, “they work three days”
Thursday	Damóo Dóó Dį́į́ʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish	dah-MOH doh DEEN jee nida-ah-nish	Sunday + four days, “they work four days”
Friday	Nidaʼiiníísh	nida-ee-NEE-ish	“They are done working”
Saturday	Damóo Yázhí	dah-MOH YAH-zhee	“Little Sunday”
Saturday (alt.)	Yiskąągo Damóo	yis-KAHN-go dah-MOH	“Tomorrow is Sunday”

Quick Reference Pronunciation Guide

For quick learning, here’s a simplified pronunciation guide for each day:

Sunday: Damóo (dah-MOH)
Monday: Damóo Biiskání (dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee)
Tuesday: Damóo Dóó Naaki Jį́ Nidaʼanish (dah-MOH doh NAH-kee jee nida-ah-nish)
Wednesday: Damóo Dóó Tááʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish (dah-MOH doh TAH jee nida-ah-nish)
Thursday: Damóo Dóó Dį́į́ʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish (dah-MOH doh DEEN jee nida-ah-nish)
Friday: Nidaʼiiníísh (nida-ee-NEE-ish)
Saturday: Damóo Yázhí (dah-MOH YAH-zhee)

Shortened Colloquial Forms

In everyday conversation, Navajo speakers often use shortened versions of the longer day names:

Tuesday through Thursday: Sometimes referred to simply by their number: “Naaki jį́” (Two days), “Tááʼ jį́” (Three days), “Dį́į́ʼ jį́” (Four days)
Saturday: Most commonly called “Damóo Yázhí” rather than the longer alternative
Casual speech: The phrase “nidaʼanish” (they work) might be spoken more quickly in the middle weekdays

Cultural Context and Origins

Understanding the cultural and historical context of Navajo day names reveals fascinating insights into language adaptation, cultural contact, and the resilience of indigenous languages.

Pre-Contact Navajo Time Concepts

Before European contact, the Navajo people did not organize time into seven-day weeks. Instead, they used:

Lunar Cycles: Months were based on moon phases, with each new moon marking a new month.

Seasonal Markers: Time was measured by natural events—plant growth, animal behaviors, weather patterns.

Day-Night Cycles: Each day and night were significant units, but not organized into recurring seven-day patterns.

Ceremonial Timing: Religious and cultural events followed natural cycles and traditional scheduling rather than calendar weeks.

The concept of an arbitrary seven-day repeating cycle had no traditional counterpart in Navajo culture. Time was fluid, circular, and connected to observable natural phenomena rather than abstract mathematical divisions.

Spanish Colonial Influence

The seven-day week entered Navajo consciousness primarily through Spanish colonization, which began in the American Southwest in the 16th century. Spanish missionaries introduced:

Christian Calendar: The week organized around Sunday as a holy day of rest.

Spanish Language Terms: Words like “Domingo” (Sunday) entered Navajo vocabulary.

Mission Activities: Weekly church services created new temporal patterns in Navajo life.

The Navajo word Damóo is a direct borrowing from Spanish “Domingo,” showing this linguistic influence. The fact that the Navajo week begins with Sunday (rather than Monday as in some cultures) reflects this Spanish-Christian heritage.

American Period and Modern Development

Later American colonization and the establishment of schools, government agencies, and churches further entrenched the seven-day week:

Boarding Schools: Navajo children forced into boarding schools learned English day names and the importance of the weekly calendar.

Wage Labor: Working for wages introduced the Monday-Friday work week, reflected in the Navajo naming of Tuesday through Thursday as “work days.”

Government Services: Interaction with federal and tribal governments required adherence to weekly schedules.

Modern Life: Today, the seven-day week is fully integrated into Navajo life, even while traditional time concepts remain important culturally.

The Work Week Pattern

The naming pattern for Tuesday through Thursday—”Damóo dóó [number] jį́ nidaʼanish”—literally translates to “Sunday and [number] days they work.” This reflects:

Colonial Work Schedules: The introduction of the Monday-Friday work week under Spanish and later American systems.

Rest Day Pattern: Sunday as the designated rest day (Christian influence).

Counting From Sunday: Days are counted from the rest day, showing Sunday’s central importance.

Labor Context: The word “nidaʼanish” (they work) indicates these days are defined by labor rather than spiritual or cultural significance.

Friday’s name, Nidaʼiiníísh (“they are done working”), perfectly captures the anticipation of the weekend and the relief from labor.

Saturday’s Dual Names

Saturday has two names in Navajo, each revealing different aspects of its position in the week:

Damóo Yázhí – “Little Sunday”

Emphasizes Saturday’s similarity to Sunday as a rest day
“Yázhí” means small or little
Suggests Saturday is like a preview or smaller version of Sunday

Yiskąągo Damóo – “Tomorrow is Sunday”

Emphasizes Saturday’s relationship to the coming rest day
Shows temporal awareness and anticipation
Common in some regions more than others

Both names show how Saturday functions as a transition day between the work week and the primary rest day.

Linguistic Adaptation and Creativity

The Navajo day names demonstrate remarkable linguistic creativity:

Borrowing: Taking “Damóo” from Spanish while maintaining Navajo pronunciation patterns.

Compounding: Creating descriptive phrases that explain each day’s position and purpose.

Cultural Logic: Using existing Navajo concepts (numbers, work, small/big) to describe new time divisions.

Flexibility: Allowing multiple names (like Saturday’s two options) based on perspective and emphasis.

This adaptability shows how living languages evolve to meet speakers’ needs while maintaining cultural and linguistic identity.

Detailed Pronunciation Guide

Mastering the pronunciation of Navajo days of the week requires attention to sounds, tones, and patterns that may be unfamiliar to English speakers.

Key Sound Features

Before diving into individual days, familiarize yourself with these key Navajo sounds:

Nasalized Vowels (ą, į, ǫ): Air flows through both nose and mouth.

High Tone (á, í, ó): Pitch rises on marked syllables.

Glottal Stops (ʼ): Complete throat closure stopping airflow.

Long Vowels (aa, ii, oo): Held approximately twice as long as short vowels.

Sunday – Damóo

Pronunciation: /dɑːmóː/

Breakdown:

Da: Long “dah” sound (like “father”)
móo: High-tone long “moh” (emphasis, higher pitch)

Practice: dah-MOH (with stress and high pitch on the second syllable)

Note: This word comes from Spanish “Domingo,” but has been fully adapted to Navajo phonology with characteristic tone and vowel length.

Monday – Damóo Biiskání

Pronunciation: /dɑːmóː bìːskání/

Breakdown:

Damóo: As above (dah-MOH)
Bii: Long “bee” sound
ská: “skah” with high tone
ní: High-tone “nee”

Practice: dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee

Meaning: “Damóo” (Sunday) + “biiskání” (one after it/next day)

Note: “Biiskání” literally means “the next one” or “one after,” indicating Monday is the first day after Sunday.

Tuesday – Damóo Dóó Naaki Jį́ Nidaʼanish

Pronunciation: /dɑːmóː dóː nɑːkì dʒĩ́ nidɑʔɑniʃ/

Breakdown:

Damóo: dah-MOH
Dóó: High-tone “doh” (means “and”)
Naaki: NAH-kee (the number two)
Jį́: High-tone, nasalized “jeen”
Nidaʼanish: nida-ah-nish (they work)

Practice: dah-MOH doh NAH-kee jeen nida-ah-nish

Meaning: “Sunday and two days they work” (counting Monday and Tuesday as two work days from Sunday)

Wednesday – Damóo Dóó Tááʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish

Pronunciation: /dɑːmóː dóː tɑ́ːʔ dʒĩ́ nidɑʔɑniʃ/

Breakdown:

Damóo Dóó: As above
Tááʼ: Long high-tone “tah” with glottal stop (the number three)
Jį́ Nidaʼanish: As in Tuesday

Practice: dah-MOH doh TAH jeen nida-ah-nish

Meaning: “Sunday and three days they work” (Monday through Wednesday)

Thursday – Damóo Dóó Dį́į́ʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish

Pronunciation: /dɑːmóː dóː dĩ́ːʔ dʒĩ́ nidɑʔɑniʃ/

Breakdown:

Damóo Dóó: As above
Dį́į́ʼ: Long, high-tone, nasalized “deen” with glottal stop (the number four)
Jį́ Nidaʼanish: As in Tuesday

Practice: dah-MOH doh DEEN jeen nida-ah-nish

Meaning: “Sunday and four days they work” (Monday through Thursday)

Cultural Note: Four is a sacred number in Navajo culture, so Thursday—as the fourth work day—has special significance.

Friday – Nidaʼiiníísh

Pronunciation: /nidɑʔìːníːʃ/

Breakdown:

Ni: Short “nee”
daʼ: “dah” with glottal stop
ii: Long “ee”
níí: High-tone long “nee”
sh: Soft “sh” sound

Practice: nida-ee-NEE-ish (with emphasis on the third syllable)

Meaning: “They are finished working” or “they are done working”

Cultural Note: This name captures the universal feeling of Friday—the relief and anticipation that comes with completing the work week.

Saturday – Damóo Yázhí

Pronunciation: /dɑːmóː jɑ́ʒí/

Breakdown:

Damóo: dah-MOH (as above)
Yá: High-tone “yah”
zhí: “zhee” (zh like the “s” in “measure”)

Practice: dah-MOH YAH-zhee

Meaning: “Little Sunday” or “Small Sunday”

Note: “Yázhí” is a common Navajo word meaning small, little, or young, used in many contexts (like “ashkii yázhí” for little boy).

Saturday (Alternative) – Yiskąągo Damóo

Pronunciation: /jiskɑ̃̀ːgò dɑːmóː/

Breakdown:

Yis: “yis”
kąą: Long nasalized “kahn”
go: “go” (means “will be” or future tense marker)
Damóo: dah-MOH

Practice: yis-KAHN-go dah-MOH

Meaning: “Tomorrow is Sunday” or “Tomorrow will be Sunday”

Usage: More common in certain regions; emphasizes Saturday’s anticipation of Sunday.

Common Pronunciation Challenges

Challenge 1: Long Day Names Tuesday through Thursday are quite long. Break them into chunks:

Damóo dóó [pause] naaki jį́ [pause] nidaʼanish

Challenge 2: Nasalized Vowels Practice the nasal quality in words like “jį́” and “yiskąągo” by humming while speaking.

Challenge 3: Glottal Stops The glottal stops in “tááʼ” and “dį́į́ʼ” are crucial. Practice with “uh-oh” to get the feeling.

Challenge 4: Tone High tones are marked with acute accents. Raise your pitch on these syllables.

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Days in Order Practice saying all seven days in sequence slowly, then gradually increase speed:

Damóo
Damóo Biiskání
Damóo Dóó Naaki Jį́ Nidaʼanish
(Continue through Saturday)

Exercise 2: Pattern Recognition Notice the repeating pattern in Tuesday-Thursday:

Damóo Dóó [NUMBER] Jį́ Nidaʼanish
Practice just this pattern with different numbers

Exercise 3: Shortened Forms Practice casual versions:

Naaki jį́ (Tuesday)
Tááʼ jį́ (Wednesday)
Dį́į́ʼ jį́ (Thursday)

Understanding the Naming Patterns

The Navajo day names follow logical patterns that, once understood, make learning and remembering much easier.

Pattern 1: Sunday as the Base

All days (except Friday) are named in relation to Damóo (Sunday):

Monday: Sunday + one (the next day)
Tuesday-Thursday: Sunday + [number] days they work
Saturday: Little Sunday OR Tomorrow is Sunday

This pattern reflects Sunday’s importance as the anchor day of the week—both as the Christian sabbath and as the reference point for counting.

Pattern 2: Counting Work Days

Tuesday through Thursday follow an identical structure with only the number changing:

Formula: Damóo Dóó + [Number] + Jį́ Nidaʼanish

Damóo Dóó: “Sunday and…”
[Number]: Naaki (2), Tááʼ (3), or Dį́į́ʼ (4)
Jį́: A particle indicating time/duration
Nidaʼanish: “They work” (third person plural imperfective of work)

Once you know this pattern and can count in Navajo, you can construct these day names logically rather than memorizing them individually.

Pattern 3: The Work Week Frame

The names create a narrative arc of the work week:

Sunday (Damóo): Rest day, starting point
Monday (Damóo Biiskání): First day after rest
Tuesday-Thursday: Counted work days (2, 3, 4 days of work)
Friday (Nidaʼiiníísh): Work is finished
Saturday (Damóo Yázhí): Little rest day before big rest day

This progression tells the story of the work week from the Navajo perspective, emphasizing the rhythm of labor and rest introduced by Spanish and American colonial systems.

Pattern 4: Descriptive vs. Borrowed

The naming strategy uses both:

Borrowed Term: Damóo from Spanish “Domingo”

Descriptive Terms: All other days described using Navajo words and concepts

This mixed strategy is common in language adaptation—borrowing key anchor terms while using native linguistic resources to fill in the rest.

Why Monday is Different

Monday breaks the counting pattern slightly. Instead of “Damóo dóó tʼááłáʼí” (Sunday and one), it’s “Damóo biiskání” (Sunday the-one-after-it).

Possible Reasons:

Monday is transitional, not counted as a full work day yet
The pattern starts counting work days from Tuesday
Linguistic efficiency (shorter name for frequently used day)
Different conceptualization of Monday as “the next day” rather than “first work day”

Why Friday is Unique

Friday alone doesn’t reference Sunday at all. Nidaʼiiníísh (“they are done working”) stands independently.

Possible Reasons:

Friday’s significance is completing the work week, not its distance from Sunday
The relief and anticipation of Friday deserves its own name
Linguistic variety in a system that could become repetitive
Cultural emphasis on completion and finishing tasks

Regional and Generational Variations

Some variations exist:

Shortened Forms: Especially among younger speakers in casual contexts.

Alternative Saturdays: Some regions prefer “Yiskąągo Damóo” while others use “Damóo Yázhí.”

English Borrowing: Some Navajo speakers, especially in urban areas or younger generations, code-switch and use English day names in Navajo sentences.

Traditional Resistance: Some elders might avoid using these terms, preferring to reference days by dates or events rather than adopting the colonial week structure.

Example Sentences Using Days of the Week

Understanding how to use day names in context is essential for natural communication. Here are extensive examples across various situations.

Stating What Day It Is

Damóo át’é.

It is Sunday.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH at-eh

Kʼadę́ę Damóo Biiskání át’é.

Today is Monday.
Pronunciation: k’ah-DEH dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee at-eh

Díí jį́ Nidaʼiiníísh át’é.

This is Friday.
Pronunciation: dee jee nida-ee-NEE-ish at-eh

Talking About Plans

Damóo Yázhígi naalnish.

I work on Saturday.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH YAH-zhee-gi nahl-nish

Damóo Biiskání kintahgóó deeshááł.

I will go to town on Monday.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee kin-tah-GO day-SHAHL

Nidaʼiiníísh yiskąągo kin dóó naʼ ashiké sitį́.

Next Friday my children will be home.
Pronunciation: nida-ee-NEE-ish yis-KAHN-go kin doh nah ashi-KAY si-TEEN

Asking Questions About Days

Háísh jį́ át’é?

What day is it?
Pronunciation: HAH-ish jee at-eh

Damóo Dóó Naaki Jį́ Nidaʼanish lá?

Is it Tuesday?
Pronunciation: dah-MOH doh NAH-kee jeen nida-ah-nish lah

Háá’íshą’ naalnish?

What day do you work?
Pronunciation: hah-eesh-ah nahl-nish

Describing Recurring Events

Damóogo níltsin.

On Sundays we rest.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH-go neel-tsin

Damóo Biiskání jį́ąą́ʼgo naałániish.

Starting Monday we work.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee jeen-ah-go nah-LAH-neesh

Nidaʼiiníísh jį́ąąʼ akonisingo kinłání.

Every Friday evening there is a gathering.
Pronunciation: nida-ee-NEE-ish jeen-ah akonisingo kin-LAH-nee

School and Educational Contexts

Damóo Biiskání dóó Nidaʼiiníísh jį́ąąʼgo ółta’ léi’.

From Monday to Friday there is school.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee doh nida-ee-NEE-ish jeen-ah-go OL-ta’ lay-ee

Damóo Dóó Tááʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish yiskąągo naaltsoosígi bééhózin.

Next Wednesday we learn reading.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH doh TAH jeen nida-ah-nish yis-KAHN-go nahl-tso-SEE-gi bay-HO-zin

Work and Business

*Damóo Biiskánígi naałníshgo béeso łahgo tʼááłáʼí neestą́diin.

Monday when I work, first pay one hundred dollars.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee-gi nahl-NEESH-go BAY-so lah-go t’ah-LAH-ee nay-STAHN-deen

Nidaʼiiníísh yéé díí naalnishí bee bééhózin nitsínílínígíísh?

By Friday will you finish understanding this work?
Pronunciation: nida-ee-NEE-ish yeh dee nahl-NEE-shee bay bay-HO-zin nit-SEE-nee-LEE-nee-geesh

Appointments and Schedules

Damóo Dóó Dį́į́ʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish yiskąągo azeeʼałʼįįgóó déyá.

Next Thursday I go to the hospital.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH doh DEEN jeen nida-ah-nish yis-KAHN-go azeh-al-EEN-go-o day-YAH

Damóo Yázhígi shíká adoolwoł lá?

Will you help me on Saturday?
Pronunciation: dah-MOH YAH-zhee-gi shee-KAH ah-dohl-wohl lah

Social and Family Contexts

Damóogo shine’é bee haz’ą́.

On Sunday my family gathers.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH-go shi-NEH bay hah-ZAHN

Nidaʼiiníísh yiską́ą yigáał.

Tomorrow Friday there will be singing/dancing.
Pronunciation: nida-ee-NEE-ish yis-KAHN yi-GAHL

Expressing Duration

Damóo Biiskání dóó Nidaʼiiníísh jį́ąąʼgo yiską́ągo.

From Monday through Friday until tomorrow.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee doh nida-ee-NEE-ish jeen-ah-go yis-KAHN-go

*Damóo Dóó Tááʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish yéédą́ą́ʼ naalnish.

I’ve been working since Wednesday.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH doh TAH jeen nida-ah-nish yeh-DAHN nahl-nish

Comparing Days

Nidaʼiiníísh éí nizhóní Damóo Biiskání át’éhí yee.

Friday is better than Monday.
Pronunciation: nida-ee-NEE-ish ay-ee nee-ZHO-nee dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee at-EH-hee yeh

Damóo dóó Damóo Yázhí łahgo nizhóní.

Sunday and Saturday are the best.
Pronunciation: dah-MOH doh dah-MOH YAH-zhee lah-go nee-ZHO-nee

Related Time Vocabulary

To fully discuss days and time in Navajo, you need related vocabulary that complements day names.

Basic Time Words

English	Navajo	Pronunciation
Today	kʼadę́ę	k’ah-DEH
Tomorrow	yiską́ągo	yis-KAHN-go
Yesterday	adą́ą́dą́ą́ʼ	ah-DAHN-dahn
Day	jį́	jeen
Night	tłʼééʼ	tl’eh
Week	dahiináágo	dah-hee-NAH-go
This week	díí dahiináágo	dee dah-hee-NAH-go
Next week	yiską́ągo dahiináágo	yis-KAHN-go dah-hee-NAH-go
Last week	adą́ą́dą́ą́ʼ dahiináágo	ah-DAHN-dahn dah-hee-NAH-go

Time of Day

English	Navajo	Pronunciation
Morning	abíní	ah-BEE-nee
Noon	tłʼááʼídídíín	tl’ah-ee-dee-DEEN
Afternoon	eeʼnahoołtááł	eh-nah-hohl-TAHL
Evening	nahastʼéí	nah-hast-AY
Midnight	tłʼéé naakaii	tl’eh nah-KAH-ee

Expressing When

Usage Particles:

-go: Marks future time or when something will happen
-gi: Marks specific time (at, on)
-dą́ą́ʼ: Marks past time or since
-ígíí: That which is/was

Examples:

Damóogo (on Sunday / when it’s Sunday)
Damóogi (at Sunday)
Damóodą́ą́ʼ (since Sunday)

Seasons and Months

While days of the week are relatively new to Navajo, traditional time concepts remain important:

Seasons:

Hai (Winter) – high
Akʼeed (Spring) – ah-keed
Shiʼ (Summer) – shih
Akʼééníłchíʼ (Fall) – ah-KEH-neil-chee

Traditional Month Names: Reference the full “Months in Navajo” guide for all twelve month names based on natural phenomena.

Duration and Frequency

English	Navajo	Pronunciation
Every day	tʼáá ałtso jį́	t’ah al-tso jeen
All week	tʼáá ałtso dahiináágo	t’ah al-tso dah-hee-NAH-go
Sometimes	táá’ łahgo	tah lah-go
Always	tʼáá ałtso	t’ah al-tso
Never	tʼáádoo	t’ah-doh

Useful Phrases with Days

Háí jį́ át’é díí?

What day is this?

Yiską́ągo háí jį́ dooleeł?

What day will it be tomorrow?

Damóo jį́ąą́ʼgo naalnish.

I work starting Sunday.

Nidaʼiiníísh yéé naalnish doo.

I don’t work by Friday. (I finish working by Friday)

Traditional Navajo Time Concepts

Understanding traditional Navajo time concepts provides important context for how the seven-day week fits (or doesn’t fit) with indigenous worldviews.

Circular vs. Linear Time

Western Concept: Time moves linearly from past through present to future. The seven-day week repeats indefinitely in a forward march.

Traditional Navajo Concept: Time is more circular, tied to natural cycles. What has happened will happen again in cycles—seasons return, ceremonies recur, life patterns repeat.

The adoption of the linear weekly calendar represents a significant conceptual shift, though many Navajo people maintain both perspectives simultaneously.

Natural Time Markers

Traditional Navajo time organization used observable natural phenomena:

Daily Markers:

Dawn (hayííłká)
Sunrise
Morning (abíní)
Midday (tłʼááʼídídíín)
Afternoon (eeʼnahoołtááł)
Sunset
Twilight
Night (tłʼééʼ)

Lunar Markers:

New moon
Waxing moon
Full moon
Waning moon

Seasonal Markers:

First leaves (April: Tʼááchil)
Planting time (June: Yaʼiishjááshchilí)
Harvest time (September: Biniʼanitʼą́ą́tsoh)
First frost
Deep snow (January: Yas Niłtʼees)

These natural markers created a time system intimately connected to environment and survival, unlike the abstract seven-day week.

Ceremonial Calendar

Many Navajo ceremonies must occur during specific natural times:

Winter Ceremonies: Some ceremonies (like Nightway/Yéi̜i̜ bi̜ cheii) can only be performed when thunder is quiet (generally between first frost and first thunderstorm).

Summer Ceremonies: Others (like Enemyway) are summer ceremonies.

Sacred Timing: Ceremonies often last specific durations (4 days, 9 nights, etc.) based on sacred numbers, not weekly cycles.

The ceremonial calendar operates independently of the seven-day week, though modern scheduling often requires coordination between traditional timing and Western calendars.

The Concept of “Sacred Time”

In Navajo philosophy, certain times and spaces are sacred and operate outside normal time:

Ceremony Time: When engaged in ceremony, participants enter sacred time where normal temporal rules don’t apply.

Story-Telling Season: Traditional stories can only be told when “the thunder sleeps” (winter), defining a sacred storytelling time.

Blessing Way: The foundational Navajo ceremony creates a timeless space of harmony and balance.

These concepts have no direct relationship to the seven-day week but remain central to Navajo spiritual and cultural life.

Generational Differences

Elders: More likely to reference traditional time markers and less likely to organize life strictly by weekly calendars (though they do so when necessary for appointments, etc.).

Middle Generation: Navigate fluidly between traditional and Western time concepts, using both as appropriate.

Youth: Growing up with digital calendars, school schedules, and social media may have stronger weekly calendar orientation, though many maintain connection to traditional concepts through family and cultural education.

Language Reflects Worldview

The fact that Navajo day names are borrowed or constructed (not ancient traditional terms) reflects that the seven-day week is an overlay on indigenous time concepts rather than an inherent part of Navajo worldview.

Yet the creative adaptation of these day names into Navajo linguistic structure shows the language’s vitality and ability to incorporate new concepts while maintaining Navajo identity.

Practical Usage in Modern Life

Understanding how days of the week function in contemporary Navajo life helps learners use these terms appropriately and effectively.

In Navajo Communities

Church Services: Many Navajo families attend Christian churches on Sunday (Damóo), making this the most culturally prominent day name. Church schedules structure the week for many community members.

Chapter Houses: Local Navajo Nation governance happens through chapter houses, which often hold meetings on specific days. Knowing day names helps with civic participation.

Social Events: Community gatherings, ceremonies, and social events are scheduled using both day names and dates, requiring fluency in both systems.

In Educational Settings

Schools: All schools on Navajo Nation operate on the Monday-Friday schedule, making weekday names essential vocabulary for students and families.

Bilingual Education: Some schools teach both Navajo and English day names, helping maintain language while ensuring students can function in broader society.

Cultural Programs: Many schools conduct cultural activities on specific days (like Friday cultural enrichment), requiring students to understand day terminology.

In Healthcare

Medical Appointments: Clinics and hospitals schedule appointments using day names and dates, making this vocabulary essential for accessing healthcare.

Traditional Healing: Some traditional healing ceremonies must start on specific days or avoid certain days, requiring coordination between traditional calendars and Western schedules.

In Professional Life

Employment: Most jobs on and off the Navajo Nation follow Monday-Friday work weeks, making weekday vocabulary essential for employment.

Tribal Government: Navajo Nation government offices operate on standard schedules, with day names used in all official communications.

Business: Entrepreneurship and business operations require fluency in scheduling using day names.

In Media and Communication

Radio Programs: Navajo radio stations (like KTNN) broadcast in Navajo and use day names when announcing program schedules.

Social Media: Younger Navajo speakers use day names in social media posts, often code-switching between Navajo and English.

Written Communication: Text messages, emails, and formal letters use day names when scheduling or planning.

Code-Switching Patterns

Many Navajo speakers fluidly code-switch between Navajo and English day names:

Navajo Sentence with English Day: “Friday yiskąągo kintahgóó deeshááł.” (Next Friday I’ll go to town)

English Sentence with Navajo Day: “I’ll see you Nidaʼiiníísh.” (I’ll see you Friday)

Mixed: “Monday dóó Wednesday jį́ąąʼgo busy.” (From Monday to Wednesday I’m busy)

This code-switching is natural and common, especially among younger speakers and in casual contexts.

Maintaining Traditional Alongside Modern

Many Navajo families and communities maintain both time systems:

Using Modern Calendar: For school, work, appointments, and interfacing with mainstream society.

Using Traditional Markers: For ceremonies, agricultural activities, traditional storytelling, and cultural practices.

Integrated Approach: “Damóo yiskąągo yéí̜i̜ bi̜ cheii ceremony.” (Next Sunday we have Nightway ceremony) – combining both systems.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learning Navajo day names involves avoiding common pitfalls in pronunciation, usage, and cultural context.

Pronunciation Mistakes

Mistake 1: Anglicizing “Damóo”

Wrong: “dah-MOO” (English “moo” sound)
Right: “dah-MOH” (Navajo “oh” sound with high tone)
Impact: Sounds incorrect to native speakers

Mistake 2: Dropping the Work Phrase

Wrong: “Damóo dóó naaki” (Sunday and two)
Right: “Damóo dóó naaki jį́ nidaʼanish” (complete phrase)
Impact: Incomplete or confusing

Mistake 3: Wrong Tone on “Yázhí”

Wrong: “yah-zhee” (flat tone)
Right: “YAH-zhee” (high tone on first syllable)
Impact: Changes meaning or sounds incorrect

Mistake 4: Missing Glottal Stops

Wrong: “Taa” (without glottal stop)
Right: “Tááʼ” (with glottal stop at end)
Impact: Wrong word entirely

Cultural Mistakes

Mistake 5: Assuming Everyone Uses These Terms

Wrong: Expecting all Navajo speakers (especially elders) to primarily use these day names
Right: Understanding some may prefer traditional time references
Impact: Cultural insensitivity

Mistake 6: Ignoring Traditional Time Concepts

Wrong: Assuming the seven-day week is the only valid time system
Right: Recognizing traditional Navajo time concepts remain important
Impact: Cultural misunderstanding

Mistake 7: Overemphasis on Work Days

Wrong: Focusing only on the work week without understanding cultural context
Right: Understanding these names reflect colonial influence
Impact: Missing deeper cultural meaning

Usage Mistakes

Mistake 8: Using Wrong Day in Sequence

Wrong: Counting Tuesday as three work days instead of two
Right: Understanding the counting starts fresh from Sunday
Impact: Confusion about which day you mean

Mistake 9: Forgetting Saturday has Two Names

Wrong: Being confused when hearing “Yiskąągo Damóo”
Right: Knowing both “Damóo Yázhí” and “Yiskąągo Damóo” mean Saturday
Impact: Misunderstanding which day is referenced

Mistake 10: Literal Translation Errors

Wrong: Translating “Damóo Biiskání” as “Sunday one”
Right: Understanding it means “the day after Sunday” (Monday)
Impact: Confusion about day references

Mistake 11: Inappropriate Code-Switching

Wrong: Using English day names in formal Navajo language settings
Right: Using Navajo day names when speaking Navajo
Impact: Seems linguistically or culturally insensitive

Learning Mistakes

Mistake 12: Trying to Learn All at Once

Wrong: Memorizing all seven long names immediately
Right: Starting with frequently used days (Sunday, Monday, Friday, Saturday)
Impact: Overwhelm and discouragement

Mistake 13: Ignoring Patterns

Wrong: Memorizing each day as completely separate
Right: Understanding the patterns (especially Tuesday-Thursday)
Impact: Harder learning process

Mistake 14: Not Practicing Aloud

Wrong: Only reading day names silently
Right: Practicing pronunciation aloud regularly
Impact: Poor pronunciation and recall

Mistake 15: Skipping Cultural Context

Wrong: Learning day names as just vocabulary
Right: Understanding historical and cultural context
Impact: Superficial knowledge without deeper understanding

How to Recover from Mistakes

Acknowledge Simply: If you mispronounce or use wrong day name, simple “hágoóneeʼ” (oops) or “nishłį́” (sorry) is sufficient.

Ask for Correction: “Háá’íshą’ t’áá ánólníigo?” (How do I say it correctly?)

Practice More: Use mistakes as learning opportunities.

Show Respect: Genuine effort and cultural respect matter more than perfection.

FAQs About Days in Navajo

Are days of the week traditional Navajo concepts?

No. The seven-day week is a European/Christian concept introduced through Spanish and later American colonization. Traditional Navajo time-keeping used lunar cycles, seasonal markers, and natural phenomena rather than arbitrary seven-day periods. The Navajo day names we use today are adaptations that incorporate this foreign concept into the Navajo language.

Why does the Navajo week start with Sunday?

The Navajo week structure follows the Spanish/Christian model where Sunday (Damóo, from Spanish “Domingo”) is the first day and primary rest day. This reflects the historical influence of Spanish missions and Catholic traditions in the Southwest. In contrast, some cultures consider Monday the first day of the week.

Why are the weekday names so long?

Tuesday through Thursday have long descriptive names because they’re literally phrases meaning “Sunday and [number] days they work.” Navajo language tends toward descriptive, transparent word formation rather than creating short, opaque terms. Once you understand the pattern, the length becomes logical rather than burdensome.

Do all Navajo speakers use these day names?

Most Navajo speakers are familiar with these terms and use them when discussing schedules and appointments. However, usage varies by generation, location, and context. Younger, urban speakers might code-switch with English more, while some elders may use these terms less, preferring traditional time references when possible. In formal Navajo language settings, these are the standard terms.

Can I shorten the long day names in casual conversation?

Yes. In casual conversation, speakers often use shortened forms like “Naaki jį́” (two days) for Tuesday or “Dį́į́ʼ jį́” (four days) for Thursday when context makes it clear. However, in formal or educational settings, using complete names shows respect and precision.

Why does Friday have a completely different name?

Friday’s name “Nidaʼiiníísh” (they are done working) breaks the pattern because it emphasizes completion of the work week rather than counting from Sunday. This reflects the cultural and practical significance of Friday as the day work ends—worthy of its own distinct name rather than just being “Sunday plus five days.”

Which Saturday name should I use?

Both “Damóo Yázhí” (Little Sunday) and “Yiskąągo Damóo” (Tomorrow is Sunday) are correct and understood throughout Navajo Nation. Regional preferences exist, but you can’t go wrong with either. “Damóo Yázhí” is perhaps slightly more common, but both are taught in language programs.

How do I ask what day it is in Navajo?

The most common way to ask is “Háísh jį́ át’é?” (literally “What day is it?”) or “Háá’ísh jį́?” (What day?). To ask what day something will happen, you might say “Háá’ísh jį́ góyaa?” (What day will it be?).

Are there Navajo names for days before European contact?

There were no names for a repeating seven-day cycle before European contact because this concept didn’t exist in traditional Navajo culture. However, Navajo had sophisticated ways of marking and discussing time through natural phenomena, lunar cycles, and seasonal changes.

Do children learn these day names in school?

Yes. Both Navajo and English day names are taught in schools on Navajo Nation, especially in bilingual education programs. Learning to use both language systems helps children maintain cultural heritage while functioning in modern society.

How do these day names relate to Navajo numbers?

The day names directly incorporate Navajo numbers (naaki=2, tááʼ=3, dį́į́ʼ=4) in their construction for Tuesday through Thursday. Understanding Navajo numbers makes learning and remembering these day names much easier. The counting pattern creates logical structure.

Is it disrespectful to use English day names when speaking Navajo?

Context matters. In casual conversation, code-switching is natural and common. In formal Navajo language settings, educational contexts, or when making conscious effort to maintain the language, using Navajo day names is more appropriate and shows respect for linguistic heritage.

Can I use these day names with non-Navajo speakers?

If you’re teaching someone about Navajo language or culture, certainly. In practical communication with non-Navajo speakers who don’t know the language, it’s more effective to use English day names or translate. Language learning is for communication, not gatekeeping.

How long does it take to memorize all seven day names?

With the patterns understood and regular practice, most learners can reliably use all seven day names within 1-2 weeks. Full comfort including pronunciation might take a month or two of regular use. The pattern recognition significantly speeds learning compared to treating each day as completely separate.

Where can I hear native speakers using these day names?

Navajo radio stations (like KTNN), language learning videos on YouTube, Navajo language courses, and interactions with Navajo speakers in schools, offices, or communities on the Navajo Nation all provide opportunities to hear these terms used naturally. Many language apps also include audio from native speakers.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Essential Points About Days in Navajo

Non-Traditional Concept: The seven-day week is not an indigenous Navajo concept but was adopted through Spanish and American colonization. Traditional time-keeping used natural cycles.

Spanish Influence: “Damóo” (Sunday) comes directly from Spanish “Domingo,” reflecting colonial mission influence.

Logical Patterns:

Monday: “Damóo Biiskání” (the day after Sunday)
Tuesday-Thursday: “Damóo dóó [number] jį́ nidaʼanish” (Sunday and [2, 3, or 4] days they work)
Friday: “Nidaʼiiníísh” (they are done working)
Saturday: “Damóo Yázhí” (Little Sunday) or “Yiskąągo Damóo” (Tomorrow is Sunday)

Work Week Emphasis: The naming pattern reflects the colonial introduction of the Monday-Friday work week, with days defined by their relationship to labor and rest.

Cultural Adaptation: While not traditional, these day names show how Navajo language adapts to new concepts while maintaining linguistic structure and identity.

Quick Reference: All Seven Days

Sunday – Damóo (dah-MOH)
Monday – Damóo Biiskání (dah-MOH bees-KAH-nee)
Tuesday – Damóo Dóó Naaki Jį́ Nidaʼanish (dah-MOH doh NAH-kee jeen nida-ah-nish)
Wednesday – Damóo Dóó Tááʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish (dah-MOH doh TAH jeen nida-ah-nish)
Thursday – Damóo Dóó Dį́į́ʼ Jį́ Nidaʼanish (dah-MOH doh DEEN jeen nida-ah-nish)
Friday – Nidaʼiiníísh (nida-ee-NEE-ish)
Saturday – Damóo Yázhí (dah-MOH YAH-zhee)

Key Learning Strategies

Start with Common Days: Focus first on Sunday, Monday, Friday, and Saturday—the most frequently used.

Understand Patterns: Master the “Damóo dóó [number] jį́ nidaʼanish” pattern for mid-week days.

Learn Navajo Numbers: Knowing numbers 1-4 makes the day names logical rather than arbitrary.

Practice in Sequence: Say all seven days in order repeatedly to build fluency.

Use in Context: Practice using day names in sentences about your schedule.

Moving Forward

Learning days of the week in Navajo connects you to:

Language Preservation: Using Navajo day names helps maintain linguistic vitality
Cultural Understanding: Recognizing how languages adapt to new concepts
Historical Awareness: Understanding colonial influences on indigenous languages
Practical Communication: Enabling scheduling and planning in Navajo language

Take Action: Practice and Continue Learning

Today’s Practice:

Learn and practice saying all seven days in order
Focus on Sunday (Damóo), Monday, and Friday—the most commonly used
Practice asking “Háísh jį́ át’é?” (What day is it?)

This Week:

Master the pattern for Tuesday-Thursday
Use day names when planning your week
Practice example sentences with days
Learn related time vocabulary (today, tomorrow, yesterday)

This Month:

Use Navajo day names consistently in your calendar
Practice code-switching between Navajo and English day names
Teach someone else the day names
Learn about traditional Navajo time concepts

Resources for Continued Learning

Online Resources:

Navajo Language Renaissance programs
KTNN Navajo Radio (live streaming)
YouTube channels featuring Navajo language lessons
Duolingo Navajo course
Navajo Word of the Day apps

Books and Materials:

Navajo language textbooks and workbooks
Children’s books about days and time in Navajo
Bilingual calendars showing both Navajo and English

Community Resources:

Navajo language classes at tribal colleges
Community language circles
Online Navajo language learning groups
Cultural centers on Navajo Nation

Share This Knowledge

Help preserve Navajo language by:

Sharing this guide with language learners
Teaching children Navajo day names
Using Navajo terms in bilingual settings
Supporting language revitalization programs

Support Language Preservation

Ways to Help:

Use Navajo day names in your scheduling
Encourage schools to teach Navajo time vocabulary
Support Navajo language media and programming
Donate to language preservation initiatives
Purchase materials from Navajo language educators

Final Thoughts

The days of the week in Navajo tell a story of cultural contact, adaptation, and resilience. From the Spanish-borrowed Damóo to the work-week pattern of mid-week days to Friday’s celebratory Nidaʼiiníísh (“they are done working”), these names reveal how the Navajo language has incorporated foreign concepts while maintaining its distinct identity.

Every time you use Navajo day names—whether saying “Damóo” for Sunday or asking “Háísh jį́ át’é?” (What day is it?)—you participate in keeping Diné Bizaad alive and thriving. You acknowledge that languages are living, adapting entities that reflect both history and contemporary life.

While the seven-day week is not ancient Navajo tradition, the language’s creative adaptation of this concept shows vitality and ongoing relevance. Traditional time concepts based on natural cycles remain important, and many Navajo people skillfully navigate between both systems, using each as appropriate.

As you practice these day names, remember that you’re not just learning vocabulary—you’re connecting with a language community, honoring indigenous linguistic heritage, and contributing to the preservation of Diné Bizaad for future generations.

Damóo dóó Damóo Yázhí yáʼátʼééh! (Sunday and Saturday are good!)

Ahéheeʼ (thank you) for your interest in learning days of the week in Navajo. May your language journey be filled with discovery, respect, and meaningful connections across cultures and time.

Source: Northern Arizona University