SEMANTIC

The Edo people of Nigeria have a rich cultural heritage and their traditional marriage are marked by variety of songs and rituals that carries significance meaning. This project aims at conducting a semantic review of the songs and rituals use in the Edo traditional marriage ceremony through an interdisciplinary approach that combines linguistics analysis, and cultural interpretation. This study seeks to explore the linguistic, cultural, and social dimensions of these songs and rituals by delving into the lyrics of the songs and also by analyzing the symbolic significance of various rituals. This study employed data collected from participation observation at a selected traditional marriage in Benin using a phone camera, and also the interviews of native speaker who are well grounded in the Edo marriage rituals. In analyzing the marriage song, the difference level of translation will be use to analyze the lyrics of the songs. By the end of this research

This research work on a semantic analysis of the Urhobo kinship system, aims to discuss kinship terms in the Urhobo language, analyzing their semantic meanings, the specific terms used for various family relationships and socio-cultural connections within Urhobo society. The study employs both primary and secondary methods of data collection, focusing on direct personal interviews with community members and inlook by a native speaker. The study applies Frame Semantics Theory (Charles Fillmore, 1975). Using a descriptive approach and qualitative data analysis techniques, the research examines various kinship terms. The findings reveal that a structured kinship system in the Urhobo community, categorizing kinship terms into descent, siblingship, and affinity, with a focus on consanguinal relationships. Together, these terms demonstrate the Urhobo people's respect for family bonds and their significance in maintaining social harmony. This study also shows that the Urhobo kinship system is more than a way of describing relationships—it is a key part of passing down cultural values and societal norms.

This study investigates the semantic implicatures of Edo personal names containing the element “Oba” (king), examining how these names reflect and preserve the cultural identity and worldview of the Edo people. Guided by the Socio-Cultural Linguistics Approach (SCLA) proposed by Bucholtz and Hall (2005), the research explores the intricate relationship between language, culture, and identity within the Edo naming system. A qualitative research method was employed, drawing on both primary and secondary sources. Primary data were collected through focus group discussions and interviews with community members, elders, and cultural leaders, while secondary data were obtained from existing literature and linguistic studies. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on identifying recurring meanings and cultural patterns associated with Oba-related names.The findings revealed four key semantic themes embedded in Edo names containing Oba: Sovereignty, Wealth, Adulation, and Protection. These themes reflect the Edo people’s deep cultural reverence for kingship, expressing authority, prosperity, loyalty, and divine safeguarding. The study concludes that personal names in Edo society go beyond identification; they serve as linguistic and cultural expressions that embody social values, beliefs, and collective memory. By applying the SCLA framework, the study highlights that Edo naming practices are a form of social action that reinforces identity, heritage, and community unity. Ultimately, Edo personal names containing Oba function as cultural vessels through which history, reverence, and social values are transmitted across generations.