taai

Taai is a term used in Dutch and Afrikaans with meanings tied to resilience and texture. In these languages, taai roughly translates as tough, hard-wearing, or chewy, depending on context. It functions as an adjective describing physical toughness or resistance, and as a descriptor for food textures.

Taai-taai is a traditional confection found in the Netherlands and in communities influenced by Dutch culture. It is a sesame-based candy made by binding toasted sesame seeds with a sugar syrup; the result is a chewy, brittle texture that gives the name taai-taai. Flavorings such as anis, cinnamon, or other spices are sometimes used.

Beyond its culinary sense, taai appears as a surname in Dutch- and Afrikaans-speaking populations. It is relatively uncommon but attested in historical records and contemporary names. It may also appear in regional expressions or placenames in some areas.

In contemporary usage, taai can describe something or someone perceived as tough or challenging, or refer to texture in foods as chewy or durable. The term therefore covers linguistic, culinary, and onomastic uses within related language communities.