σκυλί
Lemma: σκυλί
Translation: dog; hound (noun)
Etymology: From Medieval Greek σκυλίον (skylion), diminutive of Ancient Greek σκύλαξ (skylax, 'young dog, puppy'). The term evolved from referring specifically to puppies to becoming the standard Modern Greek word for 'dog', replacing the Ancient Greek κύων (kuōn).
Mnemonics
- Think of 'skill' - a skilled hunting dog
- Sounds like 'scaly' - imagine a dog with scales instead of fur
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
Dogs are common pets in Greece, though there is also a significant stray dog population in urban areas. The word can be used metaphorically to describe someone who works very hard or is very loyal, similar to English.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: σκύλος is a more formal variant of σκυλί, both meaning 'dog'
This word:
Το σκυλί μου είναι καλό.
My dog is good.
Confused word:
Ο σκύλος είναι πιστό ζώο.
The dog is a faithful animal.
Notes: σκυλί is much more common in everyday speech
Mnemonic: σκυλί is more casual, like saying 'doggy'