ζω
Lemma: ζω
Translation: live; exist; be alive (verb)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek ζώω (zṓō). Related to English 'zoo', 'zoology', and 'zodiac', all derived from Greek ζῷον (zōion) meaning 'animal', which comes from the same root meaning 'to live'
Mnemonics
- Think of 'zoo' - where animals live
- Remember 'zoology' - the study of living things
Antonyms
Cultural Context
Fundamental verb in Greek, often used in expressions of well-wishing and celebrations. The expression 'ζήτω' is commonly used in celebrations and national holidays.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: ζω (to live) vs ζεω (to boil) - similar spelling but different meaning
This word:
Ζω στην Ελλάδα.
I live in Greece.
Confused word:
Το νερό ζει.
The water is boiling.
Notes: ζω is much more common in everyday speech
Mnemonic: ζω has one letter - one life; ζεω has more letters - more bubbles (boiling)