σειρά
Lemma: σειρά
Translation: series; sequence; row; line; queue; turn; order (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek σειρά (seirá) meaning 'cord, rope, chain', derived from the verb σείρω (seírō) 'to drag, pull'. The semantic evolution from 'rope/chain' to 'series/sequence' reflects the concept of things connected in order, like links in a chain. This connects to English 'series' (from Latin series) sharing the fundamental concept of sequential connection, though the Greek word emphasizes the physical metaphor of a rope or chain binding elements together.
Example Usage
Περιμένω στη σειρά.
I'm waiting in line.
Η σειρά μου είναι επόμενη.
My turn is next.
Βλέπω μια τηλεοπτική σειρά.
I'm watching a TV series.
Είναι η σειρά μου.
It's my turn.
Μια σειρά από προβλήματα.
A series of problems.
Περιμένω τη σειρά μου.
I'm waiting for my turn.
Αυτή η σειρά στην τηλεόραση είναι πολύ καλή.
This TV series is very good.
Στάσου στη σειρά!
Stand in line!
Mnemonics
- Think 'SEER-ah' - a seer sees things in sequence
- Sounds like 'sierra' (mountain range) - mountains in a row/series
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Very commonly used in everyday Greek life, from standing in queues at banks and shops to discussing TV series. Greeks are particularly conscious of proper queuing order and taking one's turn (η σειρά μου).
Easily Confused With
Explanation: σήρα is the imperative form of σέρνω (to drag), while σειρά is a noun meaning series/line
This word:
Η σειρά είναι μακριά.
The line is long.
Confused word:
Σήρα το τραπέζι εδώ.
Drag the table here.
Notes: The accent placement is crucial for distinguishing these words in speech and writing
Mnemonic: σειρά has an accent on the second syllable and means 'series', σήρα has accent on first syllable and means 'drag!'