Browsing Tag
etymology
7 posts
Why do many superheros and villains have Arabic or Hebrew names?
Superman is called Kal El. Batman's enemy is Ra's al-Ghoul. Many names in the comic universe have an Arabic or Hebrew flavor. Why is that? And what do they mean?
How well can you identify Arabic roots?
Some letters can lead you in the wrong direction when trying to figure out the Arabic root. Some tricky examples.
Did the first mosques in Islam have minarets?
Answer: Probably not. The minaret today is one of the most important and prominent symbols of Islam. But in the very beginning, this was different.
How to learn Arabic calligraphy – an introduction (part 1)
Arabic calligraphy is an exceptional art. Many Arabic students want to learn it - however, it is a long journey.
Pasha, Mister, and Baksheesh – etymology of Arabic words (part 3)
In Arabic, there are words that don’t look Arabic - and they aren't. The etymology of basha, bakshish, sitt, efendim, khan, dulab, fingan and Khorchide.
Prison, ice cream, and shoes – etymology of Arabic words (part 2)
In Arabic there are words that don’t look Arabic - and they aren't. The etymology of liman, odah, dondurma, shish tawouk, gazma, dughry, fihris.
Jailbirds, thugs, and kufta – etymology of Arabic words (part 1)
In Arabic there are words that don’t look Arabic - and they aren't. The etymology of Baltagi, Idda, shanta, daftar, dukkan
