I'm learning עברית

ראש — meaning in English: head

rosh · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for head
המצוק
hamatsok
ראש
rosh
מחנה
makhane
התכוון
hitkaven
אירועי
eru'ei
Skip this question   
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
Already have an account? Log in
neutral very common
Usage
Hebrew speakers commonly use "ראש" (rosh) in both everyday conversation and formal contexts. For example, during a discussion about health, one might say, 'My head hurts,' using the word to refer to physical discomfort. Additionally, in academic settings, it could refer to someone in charge, such as 'the head of the department.'
Synonyms & nuances
"ראש" primarily means 'head,' but it can also refer to a leader or chief, whereas "קודקוד" (kodkod) can imply the top point of something, like a mountain. You would choose "ראש" when discussing authority or leadership, while "קודקוד" is more appropriate in geographical or mathematical contexts.
Culture
"ראש" has deep roots in Hebrew culture, extending beyond just the physical head. It appears in many idiomatic expressions, like 'ראש קטן' (rosh katan), meaning someone who is humble or not ambitious. Historically, it also signifies leadership, as seen in phrases like 'ראש ממשלה' (rosh memshala), or Prime Minister, illustrating its importance in social hierarchy.
FAQ
Q.What does the Hebrew word 'ראש' mean in English?
'ראש' translates to 'head' in English, referring not only to the physical part of the body but also to leadership roles and authority in various contexts.
Q.How do you use 'ראש' in a sentence?
You can use 'ראש' in sentences like 'יש לי כאב ראש' (yesh li ke'ev rosh), meaning 'I have a headache,' or 'הוא ראש החברה' (hu rosh hachevra), meaning 'He is the head of the company.'
Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'ראש'?
A common mistake is to confuse 'ראש' with other words that describe a head, like 'גולגולת' (gulgoleth), which specifically means 'skull.' Remember, 'ראש' is more versatile, encompassing both physical and metaphorical uses.
Learn hebrew with Maspeak →
10.000 Hebrew Words