kleb كلاب
Tunisian Derja · noun
“kleb” (كلاب) is a noun in Tunisian Derja meaning dogs (plural of kelb).
Meanings
- dogs (plural of kelb)
- bastards (insult)
Usage
Kleb is the plural of kelb (dog). In its literal sense, it simply means dogs, whether stray, guard or pet dogs. As in many cultures, the word is also used as a serious insult for people considered despicable or dishonest. In this sense it is very offensive and best avoided. The dog does not have a positive image in traditional Tunisian culture. With the article, one says "lekleb". For barking, the verb nba7 is used: "lekleb ynab7ou" (the dogs bark).
Example
الكلاب قعدوا ينبحوا الليل الكل
lekleb 9a3dou yonb7ou ellil lkol
“The dogs kept barking all night long.”
How to write it in Latin letters
In Arabizi, Darija written in Latin letters, you will find “kleb” but also “klab” and “klèb”. No spelling is official: people write the sounds as they hear them.