זקן
zaken
The Hebrew word for 'elder' is זקן (zaken).
זקן can be used as a noun to mean an 'old person' or as an adjective to mean 'old' in the masculine form.
Meaning: old person (noun)
Which one should you use?
While זקן can function as a noun meaning 'old man', it also serves as the masculine adjective for 'old'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The feminine form of the noun is זקנה, meaning 'old woman'.
How do you pronounce it?
zaken
What mistakes should you avoid?
English speakers often confuse זקן with קשיש. While זקן focuses on the physical trait of being old, קשיש is the word for 'elderly' and is considered more respectful.
When do people say it?
In informal settings, you can address older individuals affectionately using the terms Savta for grandma or Saba for grandpa.
Did you know?
- The word זקן literally translates to 'beard' in its most ancient form. It describes an 'old person' by focusing on the physical sign of facial hair that comes with age.
- In the Bible, the term זקן often refers to a civic leader or judge rather than just someone of advanced age.
- While זקן describes age, the related concept of 'wisdom' is expressed by חכמה, meaning a person can be זקן without being חכם.
Examples in context
- הגבר הזקן יושב על ספסל וקורא את העיתון.The old man sits on a bench and reads the newspaper.
- הוא זקן חכם.hu zaken chacham.He is a wise elder.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries זקן, CC BY-SA 4.0.
