I'm learning
العربية
ظَلام — meaning in English: darkness
Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
darkness
ظَلام
على ما يُرامُ
مُرتَفَع
مِعيار، مَعايير
عِوَض
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Arabic for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers use the word ظَلام in various contexts, such as describing the time of night when the sun has set and darkness envelops the surroundings. It is often used in poetry or literature to evoke feelings of mystery or fear, like in stories of the desert at night or in discussions about emotional states, such as feeling lost in ظَلام.
Synonyms & nuances
While ظَلام refers specifically to 'darkness' in a general sense, another related word is ظلامة, which can imply a darker or more oppressive form of darkness, often associated with evil or trouble. You would choose ظَلام for everyday use, while ظلامة might be reserved for more intense contexts.
Culture
The word ظَلام has its roots in the Arabic language, which is rich with poetic imagery. In Islamic tradition, darkness often symbolizes ignorance or confusion, contrasting with light, which represents knowledge and enlightenment. This duality has influenced various cultural expressions, from literature to art.
FAQ
