ماء، مِياه — meaning in English: Water, Water

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

Guess the translation for water

مُوَحَّد

نَوْعيّة

ماء، مِياه

اِستَوْجَبَ

طَريقة

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Arabic 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

Native Arabic speakers often use the word ماء (māʾ) in daily conversations when discussing basic needs, such as ordering water at a restaurant or talking about hydration. In contexts like cooking or during hot weather, it becomes essential, as it’s a vital resource in many Arab cultures, especially in desert regions.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is عَذْب (ʿadhb), meaning 'fresh water', which implies a quality aspect. You would choose ماء (māʾ) for broader references to water, while عَذْب (ʿadhb) would be used when emphasizing the cleanliness or drinkability of the water.

Culture

The Arabic word ماء (māʾ) has ancient roots, tracing back to Semitic languages, illustrating the significance of water in arid environments where it is scarce. Historically, water has been central to trade and agriculture in the region, influencing settlement patterns and cultural practices. This word is often featured in Arabic poetry, symbolizing life and purity.

FAQ

Q.What is the plural form of ماء in Arabic?

The plural form is مِياه (miyāh), which is used to refer to water in a more general or collective sense.

Q.How do you pronounce ماء in Arabic?

ماء is pronounced as 'māʾ', with a long 'a' sound, followed by a glottal stop at the end.

Q.Can ماء be used in idiomatic expressions?

Yes, ماء is often used in idiomatic phrases in Arabic, such as ماء الحياة (māʾ al-ḥayāh), meaning 'water of life', symbolizing something essential for survival.

Learn arabic with Maspeak →

Arabic 5000