Immediate Family

Core family vocabulary. Arabic has specific words for paternal and maternal relatives, reflecting the importance of extended family in Arab culture. Possessive suffixes are commonly attached to family words: 'abi' (my father), 'ummi' (my mother).

Family is the cornerstone of Arab society. Respect for elders is paramount, and children are expected to care for their parents in old age. The Arabic word for 'mercy' (rahma) shares the same root as 'womb' (rahim), reflecting the deep cultural connection between family and compassion.