علكة
'ilka
The English word 'gum' is translated into Arabic as علكة ('ilka).
The word علكة refers to a single piece of chewing gum.
Meaning: single piece of chewing gum (noun)
Which one should you use?
While علكة is the standard form, you may encounter علك, which is an informal way to say gum. Additionally, لبان is a common alternative used in various dialects.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Egyptian Arabic, gum is commonly referred to as لبان. The word لبان is also a common alternative used in many Arabic dialects, particularly in the Levant and Gulf, to refer to chewing gum.
How does it change in a sentence?
علكة is a feminine noun, so any adjectives describing it must also be in the feminine form.
How do you pronounce it?
'ilka
Did you know?
- Using the word لبان in a traditional market might result in being sold aromatic frankincense resin for a burner instead of something to chew.
- While علكة is the standard term, the root of the word is tied to the physical action of 'mastication' or rhythmic chewing.
- The terminology for gum varies significantly across the Arab world, with لبان being the preferred term in the Gulf, whereas Maghreb regions use different vocabulary.
Examples in context
- هل لديك علكة؟Hal ladayka 'ulka?Do you have gum?
- وجدْتُ علكة تحت الطاولة.Wajadtu 'ulka taḥta aṭ-ṭāwila.I found a piece of gum under the table.
Example conversation
Youssef and Sarah are walking to class together.
- سارة Saraيوسف، هل معك علكة؟Youssef, hal ma'aka 'alakah?Youssef, do you have a piece of gum?
- يوسف Youssefنعم، تفضلي هذه علكة.Na'am, tafaddalī hādhihi 'alakah.Yes, here you go, this is a piece of gum.
- سارة Saraشكراً جزيلاً يا يوسف.Shukran jazīlan yā Youssef.Thank you very much, Youssef.
- يوسف Youssefعفواً يا سارة.'Afwan yā Sarah.You're welcome, Sarah.
