For some reason, we love to compare our kids or loved ones to some sort of animal. We use the terms to describe the way they look or for something they’ve done. Don’t take it the wrong way though, because we mean it in an affectionate and cute way ... most of the time.
Here are 6 times your Arab relatives compared you to an animal.
1. Ya fara (You little mouse)
You are usually described as a “fara” when you are tiny and move around the house quickly ... and munch on anything you can find in front of you. Not sure if that’s a compliment or a hidden criticism?
2. Ya 2atta (Kitten)
If you are an “2atta” or “2at2out,” then you are as adorable and cute as a furry little kitten. Now THAT’S a compliment!
3. Ya nesnas (You little monkey)
When your khalto gives you a peck on the cheek and describes you as a “nesnas,” she’s not exactly being affectionate. What she actually means is: “you little cunning, mischievous, sneaky, naughty, ill-behaved little thing.” But somehow, you liked being called a nesnas anyway.
4. Ya dabdoob (Little teddy bear)
“Hayati shu dabdoob” is what your Arab cousin will say about your chubby little baby who guzzles down milk as if his life depended on it … which it actually does!
5. Ya 3asfoura (Little bird)
Remember when your Arab teacher wrote “well done ya 3asfoura” on your homework and you ran back home to show it to your mama full of pride and joy? Yes … happy memories! Now all you get is “dabdoobeh”.
6. Ya katkout (Little chick)
Yes, we don’t mind being compared to cute little fuzzy things ... as long as we don’t get painted in rainbow colors during Eid days and sold to little monsters!