Language is a living organism—growing, evolving, and absorbing influences from other cultures and civilizations. One of the most fascinating linguistic exchanges has occurred between Arabic and English. While many people may not realize it, the English language includes several words with Arabic origins, reflecting centuries of trade, science, exploration, and cultural exchange between the Arab world and the West.
Here are 10 commonly used English words that trace their roots back to Arabic:
1. Algebra
From Arabic “al-jabr” (الجبر), meaning “reunion of broken parts.” The term was introduced to Europe through mathematical texts written by Arab scholars in the Islamic Golden Age.
2. Alcohol
Derived from Arabic “al-kuḥl” (الكحول), which originally referred to a fine powder used for cosmetics. Over time, it evolved in meaning and became associated with distilled substances, particularly ethanol.
3. Coffee
From Arabic “qahwa” (قهوة), coffee culture originated in the Arab world, particularly in Yemen, and spread to Europe via trade routes.
4. Sugar
Although originally from Sanskrit, the Arabic “sukkar” (سكر) played a central role in transmitting the term and refining the product through the Islamic world to Europe.
5. Cotton
From Arabic “quṭn” (قُطْن), reflecting the agricultural and textile innovations of the Arab world, especially in Egypt and Andalusia.
6. Zero
From Arabic “ṣifr” (صفر), meaning “empty” or “nothing.” The concept of zero revolutionized mathematics, and its introduction to Europe came through Arabic translations of Indian texts.
7. Safari
From Arabic “safar” (سفر), meaning “journey” or “travel.” The word reached English through Swahili, a language with heavy Arabic influence, due to trade along the East African coast.
8. Arsenal
From Arabic “dār al-ṣināʿa” (دار الصناعة), meaning “house of manufacturing.” It referred to places where weapons and ships were made—vital in naval power during the Middle Ages.
9. Mattress
From Arabic “maṭraḥ” (مطرح), meaning “place where something is thrown down” or “mat.” Crusaders and travelers brought the word and the concept to Europe.
10. Tariff
From Arabic “taʿārīf” (تعريف), meaning “notification” or “definition.” It came into European usage through trade and commerce.
These words serve as reminders of the deep connections between cultures and how language evolves through interaction. From science to daily life, Arabic has left a lasting imprint on the English lexicon.