Arabic: meaning, definitions and examples
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Arabic
[ ˈærəbɪk ]
language, culture
Arabic is a Semitic language that is referred to as the lingua franca of the Arab world. It is the language of the Quran and has many dialects that vary widely across different regions. Standard Arabic is used in formal contexts, while various colloquial forms are spoken in daily life.
Synonyms
Arab, Arabian
Examples of usage
- He is learning Arabic to communicate better in his travels to the Middle East.
- The Arabic language has a rich history and is known for its beautiful script.
- She decided to study Arabic at university because she is fascinated by its culture.
Word origin
The term 'Arabic' is derived from the Latin 'Arabicus', which itself stems from the Greek 'Arabikos'. This, in turn, comes from the Arabic 'عَرَبِيّ' (ʿarabiyy), meaning 'of the Arabs'. The language dates back to the 4th century CE, where it was used by Arab tribes in the Arabian Peninsula. Over the centuries, Arabic spread through trade, conquests, and the religion of Islam, becoming the linguistic foundation of many assorted cultures across the Middle East and North Africa. The language is not only a tool for communication but also carries significant cultural, historical, and religious weight, particularly due to its relation to the Quran and Islamic tradition.