gabayan

Gabayan is a Filipino verb meaning to guide, to direct, or to lead someone or something to a place or through a process. It is used transitively to indicate providing guidance or instruction and is common in both literal and figurative language.

Etymology: The term is derived from the noun gabay, which means guidance or advice. Gabayan conveys the act of providing guidance; in Tagalog grammar it functions as a transitive verb and appears in various forms depending on voice and aspect.

Usage: In everyday speech, gabayan is used to describe guiding others through tasks, decisions, or journeys. It also appears in religious, educational, and leadership contexts, as when one prays for guidance or encourages others to seek direction—phrases such as gabayan tayo ng Diyos or gabayan natin ang ating mga sarili.

Toponymy: The name Gabayan is also used as a place name in the Philippines, appearing as the name of localities or barangays in various provinces. In such uses, the word may reflect a historical association with guidance or a landmark serving as a guidepost, though the specific origin varies by locality.