I'm learning
עברית
חותם — meaning in English: stamp
khotam · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
seal
חותם
khotam
שערך
she'erekh
תפוצת
tfutsat
מתוארים
meto'arim
הזאת
hazot
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word חותם when discussing official documents, such as contracts or certificates, where a stamp is required to signify authenticity. It can also be heard in casual conversations about mailing letters or sending packages, where stamping is necessary for postage.
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym for חותם is 'מַשָּׁחָה' (mashacha), which refers specifically to a seal or impression. While both can imply authenticity, חותם is more commonly used in everyday contexts, while מַשָּׁחָה is often reserved for legal or formal documents.
Culture
The word חותם has interesting roots in Hebrew, deriving from the verb לחתום, which means 'to sign.' Historically, stamps were used not only for signing documents but also in ancient times for sealing letters and ensuring privacy, reflecting a significant aspect of communication in Hebrew culture. There's a fascinating anecdote about how, during the Ottoman Empire, local authorities often had unique stamps to validate official documents, leading to a rich tradition of artistry in stamps that is still celebrated today.
FAQ
