זהב
zahav
The Hebrew word for 'gold' is זהב (zahav).
זהב is used to refer to the metal gold or to describe things as being golden. It can function as both a noun and an adjective through noun-adjective constructions or context.
Meaning: made of gold, golden (adj)
Which one should you use?
While זהב is the standard term for gold, the word Paz specifically denotes refined gold or exquisite jewelry.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word זהב functions as a noun meaning 'gold'. In Hebrew, it is also used to form the adjective 'golden' through context or noun-adjective constructions.
How do you pronounce it?
zahav
Did you know?
- The root of זהב is shared with the Arabic word ذهب, but in Arabic, the same root also means 'to go' or 'to leave'.
- In Hebrew, if you want to describe something as 'golden' in color, you do not just say זהב, but often use the word זהוב (zahuv), which is a distinct adjective form.
- While זהב is the general term, the biblical word פז ('Paz') describes a type of gold so pure it was considered a distinct substance from ordinary gold.
Examples in context
- יש לה לב זהב.She has a heart of gold.This sentence illustrates the use of זהב in a metaphorical expression about a heart of gold.Tatoeba #3828090 by fekundulo, translation #2217666 by Hybrid
- לא כל הנוצץ זהב.All that glitters is not gold.This sentence shows a common proverb using זהב to say that not everything glittering is gold.Tatoeba #557860 by Eldad, translation #20086 by Swift
- אתה רואה הר זהב?Do you see a mountain of gold?This sentence uses זהב to refer to a literal mountain of gold.Tatoeba #6032213 by fekundulo, translation #4761365 by billt_estates
- Chalomot Zahav (חלומות זהב)Golden dreams
- 46 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Two friends are looking at jewelry in a store.
- איתי Itayאת השעון הזה אני מאוד אוהב.et hashon haze ani meod ohev.I really love this watch.
- עגור Adiהוא נראה יפה, אבל הוא לא זהב.hu nir'e yafe, aval hu lo zahav.It looks beautiful, but it's not gold.
- איתי Itayאני לא מחפש זהב, רק משהו יפה.ani lo mehapes zahav, rak mashehu yafe.I'm not looking for gold, just something beautiful.
- עגור Adiאז השעון הזה מושלם עבורך, איתי.az hashon haze mushlam avurecha, Itai.Then this watch is perfect for you, Itai.
Sources
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
