צִלְצֵל
tsiltsél
The English verb "call" (to contact by telephone) can be translated into Hebrew as צִלְצֵל (tsiltsél) or הִתְקַשֵּׁר.
Meaning: to contact by telephone (verb)
Ways to say it
| Hebrew | Romanization (Wiktionary) |
|---|---|
| צִלְצֵל | tsiltsél |
| הִתְקַשֵּׁר | hitkashér |
When you want to express the action of contacting someone via telephone, you use these terms. Note that the Hebrew language distinguishes between the act of making a ringing sound and the actual act of calling someone.
Which one should you use?
While צִלְצֵל means to ring or make a ringing sound, הִתְקַשֵּׁר is the standard verb used for the act of calling someone on the telephone.
Related words
How do you pronounce it?
tsiltsél
Did you know?
- The root of הִתְקַשֵּׁר is related to the concept of 'tying' or 'binding', suggesting a mental connection or link being established through the call.
- The root of צִלְצֵל is onomatopoeic, meant to mimic the actual high-pitched 'cling' or 'clink' of a metal bell.
- When telling someone to 'call me back', Israelis use the verb להחזיר, which means 'to return'. You are literally 'returning the call' to the original sender.
Examples in context
- אנא התקשר אל המנהל הכללי.Please call the general manager.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “call” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
