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!”’
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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