I'm learning
עברית
חבר — meaning in English: Friend
khaver · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
Guess the translation for
friend / member (m.s.)
מלכה
malka
חבר
khaver
כרי
kari
ביהודי
beyehudei
אתן
aten
Skip this question
🎓
Learn Hebrew for free
Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.
Start learning →
informal
very common
Usage
Native Hebrew speakers often use the word חבר (khaver) in casual conversations when referring to friends or companions. For example, you might hear it during a friendly gathering, where one person introduces another by saying 'This is my חבר.' It's also common in social media interactions when chatting about outings or shared experiences.
Synonyms & nuances
While חבר (khaver) means 'friend,' another word, ידיד (yadid), translates to 'close friend' or 'dear friend.' You would use חבר for a broader range of acquaintances, whereas ידיד implies a deeper, more intimate relationship, making it more appropriate for close friendships.
Culture
The word חבר (khaver) has deep roots in Hebrew, tracing back to the Biblical era, where it signified companionship and shared experiences. In Israeli culture, friendships often hold a significant place, and the term reflects a sense of loyalty and camaraderie that is celebrated in many social contexts, from casual meetups to cultural events.
FAQ
