Merhaba
interjectionTop 100
/MER-ha-bah/
English Meaning
Hello
Synonyms (Eş Anlamlılar)
Commonly Used With (Collocations)
Merhaba demekHerkese merhaba
Example Sentence in Context
“Merhaba, benim adım Ayşe.”
“Hello, my name is Ayşe.”
Grammar & Usage
Used in both formal and informal contexts. Derived from Arabic, it is the most common and versatile way to say hello in Turkey.
Word Origin & Etymology
From Arabic 'marḥaban' (welcome), derived from the root 'r-ḥ-b' meaning 'spacious' or 'vast'.
Cultural Context
Merhaba is the safest, most universal greeting in Turkey. It bridges the gap between formal and informal, making it appropriate for addressing shopkeepers, strangers, and friends alike.
Common Idioms & Phrases
“Merhaba demek”
“To say hello / to greet”
Related Vocabulary in "Greetings & Essential Phrases"
Practice "Merhaba" with Flashcards
Beginner Basics
Master this word along with others in the Greetings & Essential Phrases category.