Bodynoun
Mata
MA-ta
Englisheye / eyes
Word of the Day · Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Mata — Bisaya Word of the Day for July 29, 2026
Origin & Etymology
"Mata" doubles as a verb root too — "mata" or "magmata" means "to wake up," a natural metaphorical link between opening one's eyes and waking from sleep.
How Bisaya Speakers Use It
"Bright-eyed" compliments work differently in Bisaya — describing someone's "mata" as expressive or striking is a genuine, common compliment in courtship contexts, much like in many other cultures.
Example Sentences
Describing eye irritation
Sakit akong mata tungod sa aso.
“My eyes hurt because of the smoke.”
A compliment during courtship
Nindot kaayo ang iyang mata.
“His/Her eyes are very beautiful.”
Describing being startled awake
Nagmata dayon siya sa kalit nga tingog.
“He/She woke up immediately at the sudden sound.”
Test Your Knowledge
Quick Quiz
What does "magmata" mean, sharing the same root as "mata" (eye)?
Related Bisaya Words
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "Mata" mean in Bisaya?
"Mata" means "eye / eyes" in Bisaya/Cebuano. It is a noun in the Body category, pronounced as "MA-ta".
How do you pronounce "Mata" in Cebuano?
"Mata" is pronounced "MA-ta". The stressed syllable is indicated by capital letters in the phonetic guide.
How do you use "Mata" in a Bisaya sentence?
Example: "Sakit akong mata tungod sa aso." — "My eyes hurt because of the smoke.". "Bright-eyed" compliments work differently in Bisaya — describing someone's "mata" as expressive or striking is a genuine, common compliment in courtship contexts, much like in many other cultures.
One word a day keeps forgetting at bay — TalkBisaya