Linguistic and Cultural Perspectives on Color in Ósósọ̀

Abstract

Color terms are a vulnerable aspect of linguistic heritage, particularly within minority languages like Ósósọ̀, spoken in Edo State, Nigeria. This study investigates the linguistic and cultural conceptualization of color in Ósósọ̀, focusing on its symbolic, cognitive, and environmental dimensions. The aim is to examine how color is represented in Ósósọ̀ linguistically and culturally, with objectives that include uncovering the socio-cultural logic behind color naming and understanding how language shapes perception. Eight consultants were purposively selected from the four quarters of Ósósọ̀ village and interviewed using structured questionnaires through the Key Informant Interview (KII) method. Additional data was gathered from a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) on color concepts. To interpret the metaphorical nature of Ósósọ̀ color expressions, the study draws on Cognitive Linguistics, specifically Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT). Findings reveal that Ósósọ̀ color terms are deeply tied to cultural experience and local surroundings, relying on metaphor and comparison rather than abstract vocabulary. Expressions such as àbí óbè (“like leaf”) for green and àbí òzẹ̀ (“like blood”) for wine reflect environmental and cultural associations. This research contributes to the discourse on indigenous knowledge systems and semantic diversity. It recommends documenting and integrating Ósósọ̀ color expressions into educational and cultural initiatives to help preserve the language and safeguard the community’s heritage.