قبلات
qubulāt
The English phrase "kisses" is translated into Arabic as قبلات (qubulāt).
The plural form of the act of touching someone with the lips to show love or affection.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is formed by the root q-b-l (to face/receive) and the suffix '-āt' which denotes a sound feminine plural.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In some dialects of Arabic, such as Moroccan or Algerian, the word بُوسَات means "kisses."
How do you pronounce it?
qubulāt
Did you know?
- In formal Arabic literature, the word قبلة can also refer to the 'Qibla', the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca that Muslims face during prayer.
- The root q-b-l also relates to the word for 'accepting' something, implying that a kiss is an acceptance of the other person.
- In many Arabic-speaking cultures, the act of 'kissing' the hand of an elder is a profound sign of respect and reverence rather than romantic affection.
Examples in context
- أهلاً وسهلاً! بوس بوس!Welcome! Lots of kisses!
- رسمت قبلات على الورقة.rasamtu qubalat 'ala al-waraqa.I drew kisses on the paper.
Example conversation
A couple is saying goodbye at the airport.
- أحمد Ahmedسأفتقدك كثيراً يا مريم.Sa-aftaqiduki kathiran ya Maryam.I will miss you very much, Maryam.
- مريم Maryamوأنا أيضاً سأفتقدك يا أحمد.Wa ana aydan sa-aftaqiduka ya Ahmed.And I will miss you too, Ahmed.
- أحمد Ahmedأعطني قبلات أخيرة قبل الرحيل.A'tini qubalat akhira qabla ar-rahil.Give me some last kisses before leaving.
- مريم Maryamبالطبع، سأفعل ذلك الآن.Bil-tab', sa-af'alu dhalika al-an.Of course, I will do that now.
