I'm learning العربية

كَلْب، كِلاب — meaning in English: Dog, dogs

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

Guess the translation for dog
تَصديّ
طُموح ات
لِئَلّا
كَلْب، كِلاب
فَريد
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 كَلْب in everyday conversations when discussing pets, particularly dogs. For example, a family might talk about their كَلْب when discussing its behavior or when taking it for a walk in the park. Additionally, in warmer climates, كِلاب may be mentioned in the context of stray dogs, highlighting social issues or community interactions.
Synonyms & nuances
Another word for dog in Arabic is جَرو, which specifically refers to a puppy. You would use كَلْب when discussing dogs in general or adult dogs, while جَرو is more appropriate when referring to younger dogs.
Culture
The word كَلْب has deep roots in Arabic literature and culture, often symbolizing loyalty and companionship. Interestingly, while dogs are viewed as loyal friends in many cultures, in some regions of the Arab world, they were historically seen with skepticism due to health concerns linked to rabies, which added complexity to their role in society. This duality makes كَلْب a fascinating word to explore in terms of cultural perceptions.
FAQ
Q.What is the plural form of كَلْب in Arabic?
The plural form of كَلْب is كِلاب. This is useful to know when discussing more than one dog, such as in general conversations about multiple pets.
Q.Are there different dialects that use كَلْب differently?
Yes, while كَلْب is widely understood across Arabic dialects, some regional variations may have their own colloquial terms or nuances. For instance, in some Gulf dialects, you might hear terms like 'بو كَلْب' to refer to a dog in a more casual context.
Q.How do you use كَلْب in a sentence?
You can use كَلْب in a sentence like 'عندي كَلْب جميل' which translates to 'I have a beautiful dog.' This illustrates possession and allows you to describe the dog further.
Learn arabic with Maspeak →
Arabic 5000