What does "asebatchi" mean?

[Annika]

Hi! Could someone please tell me what "asebatchi" means? (I'm not sure of the exact spelling). Everyone I've asked has given me a different explanation. I heard the word for the first time on my last trip to the DR. Thanks

 

[Indie]

I think you mean "asabache". It is a charm usually found in the shape of a little black ball or tiny black hand, and is worn on a bracelet or necklace.

Most Dominicans are very superstitious, so parents, friends and relatives give an asabache present as a good-luck charm to a newborn baby. Supposedly, this wards off "el mal de ojo" -- the "evil-eye" spell, and protects the child from harm.

-Indie

 

[Annika]

Thanks Indie. When I heard it, the word was used in a way that describes a person, like asabache de (name). What do you think they were trying to say? (I can explain further as to what they said if you want).

Annika

 

[Indie]

Maybe they were referring to the person's skin color--most likely black.

 

[JOHNNY HONDA]

Dont realy know but I used to own A Paso fino with that name
J.H.

 

[Annika]

The person was talking about my sister's eyes, saying she has asabache eyes. Then started calling her "asabache de Krystal" everytime he saw her. When I first heard about the "evil-eye" spell stuff, I thought maybe he meant she had evil eyes. But I guess he could have just been describing her eyes....very dark, practically black colored eyes.

Thanks
Annika

 

[Indie]

In that case, he was definitely referring to your sister's very dark and pretty "asabache" eyes that charmed him. Nice compliment, by the way.