KINSHIP TERMS IN THE NIAS LANGUAGE AS CARRIERS OF AUSTRONESIAN CULTURE AND THEIR EXISTENCE IN THE MODERN CONTEXT IN NORTH SUMATRA PROVINCE (AN ETHNOLINGUISTIC PERSPECTIVE)

Abstract

This research aims to describe kinship terminology in the Nias language as one reflection and
bearers of Austronesian culture from an ethnolinguistic perspective. The study focuses on linguistic
aspects in terms of socio-cultural structures and interpersonal relationships within the Nias ethnic
community. This is a descriptive qualitative study with data consisting of words and expressions
related to kinship terms in Nias, analyzed inductively using an ethnographic approach in order to
explore the cultural meanings contained in these expressions. Data were collected through
interviews, supported by library research. The findings show that kinship terms are organized based
on age and generational level, namely consanguineal kin, affinal kin, and ego-equivalent categories.
Ethnolinguistically, Nias kinship terms are very rich, expressed through words and multi-word
phrases which reflect a hierarchical social structure (nobles, commoners, slaves) and strong
patrilineal principles, as seen in terms such as ama ‘father/in-law’, ina ‘mother/in-law’, ono alawe
‘married daughter’ reflecting vertical and horizontal relationships. This kinship system is
functionally significant as a social guide that maintains harmony, regulates rights and obligations,
and ensures the continuation of Austronesian cultural traditions and respect within the community.
In the modern context the existence of kinship terms continue to serve as a strong cultural anchorː
not merely as words, but as a living social system that adapts in order to endure and help Nias
communities maintain connections and identity in an increasingly globalized world.