Hebrew Language Academy Urges Use of Native Terms for School Supplies

As the academic year begins, the Hebrew Language Academy is reminding the public of the rich Hebrew origins of common words, particularly those related to school supplies. The Academy aims to encourage the use of established Hebrew terms over their foreign counterparts.

For instance, the Academy explains that 'tablet' computers should be referred to as 'maẖshev laẖ' (literally 'board computer'), a term derived from the Greek 'tabula' meaning 'writing board'. A highlighter is correctly termed 'madgeś' (meaning 'emphasis'), not 'marker'. The common term 'kalser' for a binder is a loanword; its Hebrew equivalent is 'okdan' or 'ogdan', referring to its clasp mechanism.

The word for pencil, 'iparon', was coined about a century ago, replacing the older phrase 'et 'oferet' (lead pen), even though pencils use graphite, not lead. The sandwich, 'karikh', has roots in ancient Jewish tradition, inspired by Hillel the Elder's practice of combining Passover offerings, as described in the Passover Haggadah. The English sandwich is named after Lord Sandwich, a compulsive gambler who ate them to avoid interrupting his games.

The pencil case, 'kalmar', originates from the Greek 'kalmarin', related to 'kolmos' (quill), meaning a case for writing implements. The Arabic word 'kalam' (pen) also stems from this Greek root. A notebook, 'maẖberet', derives from the Hebrew root 'ḥbr' meaning 'joining' or 'uniting', with ancient uses referring to joined pieces of fabric.

Finally, the Academy notes that the word 'yalqut' (schoolbag or satchel) has historical weight, referencing the biblical account of King David choosing five smooth stones from a stream and placing them in his shepherd's bag before battling Goliath.