Ulo
U-lo
Englishhead
Word of the Day · Saturday, June 6, 2026
U-lo
Englishhead
"Ulo" refers to the physical head, but figuratively also appears in expressions of leadership and authority — "ulo sa balay" (head of the household) works the same metaphor as in English.
Touching a child's head casually, even affectionately, is discouraged in many Filipino households out of old folk beliefs that it stunts growth — visitors unfamiliar with this often get gently corrected.
Sakit akong ulo, tingali gikapoy ko.
“My head hurts, I'm probably just tired.”
Siya ang ulo sa ilang pamilya.
“He/She is the head of their family.”
Ayaw hikapa ang ulo sa bata.
“Don't touch the child's head.”
Quick Quiz
Why do many Filipino households discourage touching a child's head?
"Ulo" means "head" in Bisaya/Cebuano. It is a noun in the Body category, pronounced as "U-lo".
"Ulo" is pronounced "U-lo". The stressed syllable is indicated by capital letters in the phonetic guide.
Example: "Sakit akong ulo, tingali gikapoy ko." — "My head hurts, I'm probably just tired.". Touching a child's head casually, even affectionately, is discouraged in many Filipino households out of old folk beliefs that it stunts growth — visitors unfamiliar with this often get gently corrected.
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