مخلل
mukhallal
The English phrase pickles is translated into Arabic as مخلل (mukhallal).
مخلل refers to vegetables that have been preserved in vinegar or brine. The singular form is commonly used as a collective noun to refer to pickles in general, much like 'rice' or 'fruit' in English.
What does it mean word for word?
The word مخلل is a passive participle derived from the verb meaning 'to pickle' or 'to preserve'.
How do you pronounce it?
mukhallal
Did you know?
- In some Levantine dialects, the word مخلل can be used metaphorically to describe someone who is 'sour' or grumpy in personality.
- While English speakers primarily associate 'pickles' with cucumbers, مخلل frequently refers to pickled turnips, which are dyed a bright pink color using beetroots.
- In many Middle Eastern markets, مخلل is sold in massive open barrels where customers pick their own pieces, a tradition that persists despite modern packaging.
Examples in context
- عذرًا، هل لديك أي مخلل؟Excuse me, do you have any pickles?
- لقد وجدت وصفة رائعة للمخلل!I found a delicious recipe for pickles!
Example conversation
Yusuf and Layla are eating dinner at home.
- يوسف Youssefهل تريدين مخلل يا ليلى؟Hal turīdīna mukhallal yā Laylā?Do you want pickles, Layla?
- ليلى Laylaنعم، أضف المخلل إلى طبقي.Na'am, aḍif al-mukhallal ilā ṭabaqī.Yes, add the pickles to my plate.
- يوسف Youssefسأحضر المخلل الآن.Sa-uḥḍir al-mukhallal al-ān.I will bring the pickles now.
- ليلى Laylaشكراً لك يا يوسف.Shukran laka yā Yūsuf.Thank you, Yusuf.
