By John Mutiso
Google has released the 2025 search lists for Kenyans.
In a statement released on Thursday, December 4, the tech giant revealed a nation deeply curious about political terminology, cultural slang, and global events that shaped the year.
The passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on October 15, 2025, sent Kenyans searching for answers about the man who had defined Kenya’s political landscape for decades.
‘Enigma meaning’ topped the trending meanings list, as tributes poured in describing the late leader with this term that captured his complex political persona.
‘Jowi meaning’ came in second, another nickname associated with Raila. In the Luo language, the word means ‘buffalo,’ symbolizing strength, courage, and power.
Political sloganeering also drove searches, with ‘Wantam meaning’ ranking seventh. The term, short for ‘one term,’ became a popular rallying cry calling for politicians to serve only single terms, reflecting public appetite for political change.
‘Saba saba meaning’ claimed the ninth spot, referencing the historic July 7, 1990, protests that demanded multi-party democracy. The date gained renewed relevance in 2025 when countrywide protests on Saba Saba day turned violent, resulting in 31 deaths, looting of businesses, and hundreds of arrests.
The death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, and the subsequent election of Pope Leo XIV prompted Kenyans to search for the meaning of ‘Conclave’; the assembly of cardinals that elects a new pope. The phrase ‘Habemus Papam meaning’ (‘We have a Pope’ in Latin) also trended as the world awaited the announcement of the new pope.
Internet culture left its mark on search trends, with ‘Demure meaning’ ranking fourth. The term, meaning reserved, modest, and shy, went viral across social media platforms throughout the year.
‘Kubant meaning’ reflected Kenya’s evolving Sheng language. While traditionally meaning ‘to be eliminated from a competition,’ the term took on a broader meaning in 2025 social media conversations, referring to anyone who made wrong decisions or was perceived as being ‘wrong.’
Wellness curiosity drove ‘Ayurvedic meaning’ into the top ten, as Kenyans explored the traditional Indian system of medicine, which encompasses yoga, herbal remedies, and dietary practices.
Celestial events weren’t forgotten, with ‘Blood moon meaning’ rounding out the list as Kenyans sought to understand the dramatic red glow during total lunar eclipses.
The search trends paint a picture of Kenya in 2025: a nation mourning its political giant, questioning governance systems, staying connected to global events, and constantly seeking to understand the evolving language of its digital generation.
