khatem خاتم
Algerian Darja · noun
“khatem” (خاتم) is a noun in Algerian Darja meaning ring, band.
Meanings
- ring, band
- seal, stamp
Usage
Khatem refers to the ring worn on the finger; the plural is "khwatem". It is a common word, especially in connection with engagements and weddings, where giving the ring is an important moment. One says "ylebbes el khatem" for putting the ring on someone's finger. The expression "khatem Sliman" (the ring of Solomon) evokes something rare, almost magical. The meaning "seal" is rarer in everyday use. Not to be confused with "khtem", which means "to finish" or "to affix a stamp".
Example
شرالها خاتم ذهب للخطبة.
chralha khatem dheb lel khotba.
“He bought her a gold ring for the engagement.”
How to write it in Latin letters
In Arabizi, Darija written in Latin letters, you will find “khatem” but also “khatm”, “khatam”, “5atem” and “khatim”. No spelling is official: people write the sounds as they hear them.
Digits stand in for Arabic letters that have no Latin equivalent: 5 is kha (خ), like the ch in Scottish loch.
Type “khatem” on the Arabic keyboard
In Moroccan Darija
Spelt the same way in Arabic, the word also exists in Moroccan Darija, where it means “ring”; “wedding ring (khatem dyal zwaj)”: khatem in Moroccan.
In Tunisian Derja
Spelt the same way in Arabic, the word also exists in Tunisian Derja, where it means “ring”; “wedding or engagement ring”: khatem in Tunisian.