Why Does English Have Arabic Loanwords?
The influence of Arabic on English can be traced back to the Middle Ages when Arab civilization was at the forefront of science, mathematics, medicine, and trade. Through interactions with Spain (Al-Andalus), the Crusades, and the bustling Silk Road, Arabic words entered European languages and eventually filtered into English. Many of these words are related to scientific advancements, exotic goods, and trade, but others have become so familiar that their origins surprise even native speakers.
Common English Words with Arabic Origins
1. Coffee
The word “coffee” comes from the Arabic word qahwa. Coffee drinking originated in the Arab world, and the term traveled via Turkish (kahve) and Italian (caffè) before becoming “coffee” in English. Next time you order your morning brew, remember its Arabic roots!
2. Algebra
Algebra is derived from the Arabic word al-jabr, meaning “reunion of broken parts” or “completion.” The term was introduced to Europe through the influential work of the Persian mathematician Al-Khwarizmi, whose book Al-Kitab al-Mukhtasar fi Hisab al-Jabr wal-Muqabala laid the foundation for modern algebra.
3. Cotton
The English word “cotton” comes from the Arabic qutn or qutun. As cotton was traded throughout the Mediterranean, the Arabic term spread and became the standard word in many European languages.
4. Sugar
“Sugar” traces its linguistic roots to the Arabic word sukkar, which itself comes from the Sanskrit sharkara. Arabs played a crucial role in refining and trading sugar, introducing both the product and the word to Europe.
5. Safari
The word “safari” comes from the Arabic safar, meaning “journey.” It entered English through Swahili, which borrowed the Arabic term due to historical trade contacts between Arabs and East Africans.
6. Alcohol
“Alcohol” derives from the Arabic al-kuḥl, which originally referred to a fine powder used as an eyeliner (kohl). The word evolved to describe distilled substances in general, eventually coming to mean the intoxicating drink.
7. Zero
The mathematical term “zero” comes from the Arabic sifr, meaning “empty” or “nothing.” This concept was introduced to Europe by Arab mathematicians, revolutionizing mathematics and science.
8. Jar
The everyday word “jar” comes from the Arabic jarra, meaning an earthenware container. This is another example of how Arabic trade goods and terminology found their way into English.
9. Admiral
“Admiral” is derived from the Arabic phrase amir al- (commander of), often used in titles for naval leaders, such as amir al-bahr (commander of the sea). The term entered European languages through Mediterranean naval contacts.
10. Magazine
The word “magazine” comes from the Arabic makhazin, the plural of makhzan, meaning “storehouse.” Initially referring to a place for storing goods or ammunition, it later came to mean a publication that stores information.
Other Notable English Words from Arabic
- Artichoke (from al-khurshūf)
- Giraffe (from zarāfa)
- Lemon (from laymūn)
- Orange (from nāranj, via Persian)
- Sofa (from ṣuffa)
- Syrup (from sharāb)
- Caliber (from qālib)
- Check (as in cheque, from sakk)
- Tariff (from ta‘ārīf)
- Mummy (from mūmiyāʾ, meaning bitumen or embalmed body)
How Learning Arabic Enriches Your Vocabulary
Recognizing these Arabic roots in everyday English words is not only fascinating but also helpful for language learners. If you are studying Arabic, connecting familiar English terms to their Arabic origins can make vocabulary acquisition more intuitive and memorable. At Talkpal, we encourage learners to explore the stories behind words – it’s a fun way to see how languages influence each other and to deepen your understanding of both English and Arabic.
Conclusion
The Arabic language has made a lasting impact on English, gifting us words that we use daily, often without realizing their origins. From coffee to zero, the Arabic language’s legacy in English is a testament to the enduring power of cultural exchange. As you continue your journey learning Arabic, keep an eye out for these shared words – you’ll find that the ties between languages are closer than you think. For more insights into language learning and fascinating linguistic trivia, be sure to follow the Talkpal AI language learning blog!
