Do you ever wonder what those cool words on your Libyan merch actually mean? Well, wonder no more!
Dictionary Corner
Do you ever ponder the significance of those captivating words on your favourite Libyan merchandise? If so, worry no more because today, we embark on an exciting journey of unraveling the hidden meanings behind these fascinating expressions.
Prepare to embark on an enlightening quest of linguistic discovery!
Baahi [ baa • hi ]
Though only really commonly used and/or understood in the Arab Maghreb, baahi has etymological roots in the classical Arabic word, baha’, which means the good, the beautiful, the brilliant. The beauty of the word lies in its versatility, so depending on the intonation, it can mean:
I’m intrigued, tell me more!
I’ll get you back for that!
I’m good.
This is tasty.
Hasheeshti [ ha • sheesh • ti ]
When you treat or regard something with special liking, you say that thing is hasheeshti. It is used when referring to something that is your absolute most favourite thing in the galaxy. The power behind the word lies in the fact that it is derived from the Arabic word, hasheesh - yes, that hasheesh.
Hikki [ hik • ki ]
An interesting word, hikki can be used to mean, ‘like so’ when explaining how to do something or how something works. However, the second usage can be the bane of one's existence. If someone is in a stubborn or vindictive mood, they can refuse to explain themselves, or a certain action, by pointing to their head and saying hikki in a slow and malignant tone.
Imbahbah [ im • bah • bah ]
When it comes to life, there are certain levels one can unlock. There are those who have an air of general happiness, who you would describe as being broadly pleased. Then there are those who are so engulfed with contentment, that merriment and glee seemingly exude from their very being. It may be a moment or a general state of mind, but that individual would be described as imbahbah.
Saga’ ‘alaik [ sa • ga’ ] [ ‘a • alaik ]
Literally translated as, “Too cold for you”, saga’ ‘alaik is used when wanting to express satisfaction over something you’ve achieved or performed, which others find impressive. It can also be said with a bit of tongue-in-cheek, so the action does not necessarily have to be some exemplary feat or stroke of genius. It could just be part of some self-deprecating humour when you fail at everything.