Esemkofu, noun

Forms:
Also Esimkovu.
Plurals:
unchanged.
Origin:
IsiZuluShow more Probably adaptation of isiZulu izimkhovu, obsolete plural form of umkhovu an exhumed corpse brought back to life as the familiar of a witch or wizard. (The plural is now usually imikhovu.)
obs.
(Usually plural) Among isiZulu-speakers: the familiar of a witch or wizard, said to be a corpse brought back to life by magic. See also witchdoctor.
1875 D. Leslie Among Zulus 120‘What are Esemkofu?’ ‘An Esemkofu is a person who has been dead, and has been raised again by witches, who cut off his tongue, and so prevent him from talking and telling secrets; he can only utter a wailing noise — “Maieh! maieh!”’
1895 H. Rider Haggard Nada 184Many tales had been told to me of this Ghost Mountain, which all swore was haunted..said some, by the Esemkofu — that is, by men who have died and who have been brought back again by magic.
1925 D. Kidd Essential Kafir 128The Esimkovu are supposed to be people who have been dead and have been raised from the dead by witches.
(Usually plural)the familiar of a witch or wizard, said to be a corpse brought back to life by magic.
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18751925