מלך — meaning in English: king

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

Guess the translation for king

והחל

vehakhel

יכלה

yakhla

מלך

melekh

הבכיר

habakhir

עלי

ali

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neutral common

Usage

Native Hebrew speakers commonly use the word 'מלך' (melekh) in both formal and informal contexts when discussing leadership, authority, or historical narratives. You might hear it in conversations about Israeli history, royal families, or even in pop culture references to powerful figures.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym to 'מלך' (melekh) is 'מלכה' (malkah), which means 'queen.' While 'מלך' refers specifically to a male ruler, 'מלכה' denotes female royalty. Choosing 'מלך' over other synonyms emphasizes authority and traditional male leadership roles.

Culture

'מלך' (melekh) has roots in ancient Hebrew, deriving from the verb 'מלוך' meaning 'to reign.' Throughout the Bible, kings such as David and Solomon are central figures, making this word rich with cultural significance. Interestingly, in modern Hebrew, it's also used metaphorically to describe someone excelling in their field, such as a 'king' in sports or music.

FAQ

Q.What does the Hebrew word 'מלך' mean in English?

'מלך' (melekh) translates to 'king' in English, representing a male monarch or ruler in various historical and cultural contexts.

Q.How is 'מלך' used in everyday Hebrew?

'מלך' is often used in discussions about leadership, both historically and in contemporary settings. It can also appear in idiomatic expressions, such as calling someone a 'king' when they excel at something.

Q.Are there any common mistakes when using 'מלך'?

A common mistake is confusing 'מלך' with 'מלכה' (queen). Ensure you're using 'מלך' when referring to male rulers, and reserve 'מלכה' for female counterparts.

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