Iyya

Iya, or IYA, is a term that appears in different languages and contexts with distinct meanings. It may refer to a common noun in Yoruba, a geographic name in Japan, or an acronym for an international science event, among other uses.

In Yoruba, Ìyá means "mother" and functions as a term of respect for women and female elders. The word is embedded in daily speech, names, and proverbs within Yoruba-speaking communities, reflecting the cultural importance of motherhood and kinship.

The Iya Valley, also known as Iya Gorge, is a remote highland region in Tokushima Prefecture on Shikoku Island, Japan. It is renowned for dramatic scenery, steep gorges, and traditional vine bridges called kazurabashi, which attract hikers and cultural travelers seeking historic rural landscapes.

IYA commonly refers to the International Year of Astronomy 2009, a global celebration proclaimed by the United Nations and UNESCO to promote astronomy and public engagement with science. The year featured events, exhibitions, and outreach programs around the world to highlight astronomical discoveries and scientific literacy.

Other uses of the term include its use as a personal or place name in various languages, or as an acronym for organizations or programs not related to the above meanings. The meaning of "iya" thus depends heavily on linguistic and regional context.