γλώσσα
glóssa/ˈɣlo.sa/feminine
The Greek word for 'language' is γλώσσα (glóssa).
The word γλώσσα is used to refer to a system of communication, such as a spoken language, as well as the physical organ in the mouth.
Meaning: body of words used as a form of communication (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
Literally, γλώσσα means 'tongue'.
How does it change in a sentence?
The plural form of γλώσσα is γλώσσες.
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is glóssa. It is pronounced with two syllables, and the stress is on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The English word 'glossary', meaning a list of specialized terms, is derived from the Greek word γλώσσα.
- In Greek, a 'slip of the tongue' is expressed as γλωσσοπλεξία, which literally refers to the tongue becoming entangled.
- Ancient Greek speakers used the term γλῶσσα to describe the 'tongue' of a shoe or a strap of leather, applying the linguistic term to physical objects.
Examples in context
- Μιλάς τη γλώσσα μου;Do you speak my language?This sentence is useful for asking if someone speaks your language using γλώσσα.Tatoeba #5518476 by Zeus, translation #1465729 by Eldad
- Γνωρίζω τη γλώσσα σας.I know your language.This sentence is useful for stating that you know someone's language using γλώσσα.Tatoeba #2421620 by mululatv, translation #656787 by janmato
- Λατρεύω τη γαλλική γλώσσα.I adore the French language.This sentence is useful for expressing an adoration for the French language using γλώσσα.Tatoeba #2814013 by glavkos, translation #9198518 by Nylez
- 88 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Nikos and Kyriaki are discussing their university studies.
- Νίκος NikosΤι μελετάς στο πανεπιστήμιο;Ti meletas sto panepistimio;What are you studying at the university?
- Κυριακή KyriakiΜελετώ τη ρωσική γλώσσα.Meleto ti rosiki glossa.I am studying the Russian language.
- Νίκος NikosΕίναι ενδιαφέρουσα η γλώσσα αυτή.Einai endiaferousa i glossa afti.That language is interesting.
- Κυριακή KyriakiΝαι, αλλά είναι πολύ δύσκολη.Ne, alla einai poly dyskoli.Yes, but it is very difficult.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “language” translations and entries γλώσσα, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
