חג — meaning in English: Holiday

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

Guess the translation for holiday

באירועים

ba'eru'im

קהילת

kehilat

הבולטות

haboltot

חג

khag

צמד

tsemed

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

Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word חג (khag) when discussing holidays like Passover, Sukkot, or Rosh Hashanah. It's often mentioned in family gatherings, community celebrations, and religious ceremonies, highlighting the importance of these occasions in Israeli culture.

Synonyms & nuances

While חג (khag) specifically refers to a holiday, another term, יום חג (yom khag), emphasizes the day of the holiday itself. You might choose חג to speak more generally about the festive spirit, while יום חג highlights the specific day and its observances.

Culture

The word חג (khag) comes from the root חגג (khagag), which means 'to celebrate' or 'to dance.' This etymology reflects the joyous nature of holidays in Jewish tradition, where celebrations often involve communal meals, prayers, and festivities. Notably, the cyclical nature of Jewish holidays underscores the rhythm of life in Jewish culture, connecting generations through shared traditions.

FAQ

Q.What are some common Hebrew holidays associated with the word חג?

Common Hebrew holidays include Passover (פסח, Pesach), Sukkot (סוכות), and Hanukkah (חנוכה). Each of these has unique traditions and rituals that reflect the rich cultural tapestry of Jewish life.

Q.How do you pronounce חג in Hebrew?

The word חג is pronounced as 'khag,' with a throaty 'kh' sound similar to the Scottish 'loch.' This pronunciation can take some practice for English speakers, but it’s essential for conveying the correct meaning.

Q.Can חג be used in a sentence about non-Jewish holidays?

While חג primarily refers to Jewish holidays, it can also be used more broadly in discussions about holidays in general. However, in a strictly Hebrew context, it's best associated with Jewish celebrations.

Learn hebrew with Maspeak →

10.000 Hebrew Words