I'm learning
עברית
מתים — meaning in English: Dead
metim · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
Dead
הזמן
hazman
האחרון
ha'acharon
אלא
ela
מתים
metim
הייתה
hayta
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
neutral
common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the word מתים (metim) in discussions about death, particularly in formal contexts such as healthcare, literature, or religious ceremonies. It may also appear in everyday conversations when talking about the deceased or metaphorically to describe something that is no longer functioning, like a 'dead battery.'
Synonyms & nuances
A close synonym is מת (mat), which is the past tense form of 'to die' in Hebrew. While מתים (metim) refers specifically to those who are deceased, מת can also imply the action of dying, making it more dynamic. You would choose מתים when referring specifically to those who have passed away rather than discussing the act of dying.
Culture
The word מתים (metim) has deep roots in Hebrew culture, often linked to the religiosity surrounding death and the afterlife in Jewish traditions. Interestingly, it is derived from the root מת (mat), which conveys both the idea of death and the broader concept of mortality. This word not only signifies physical death but also resonates with philosophical discussions about existence and the human experience.
FAQ
