δάκρυα
Wordform Details
Translation: tears
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
neuterpluralnominativeIs Dictionary Form: No
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: δάκρυ
Translation: tear; teardrop (noun)
Etymology: From Ancient Greek δάκρυ (dákru), related to δάκρυον (dákruon), 'tear'. This shares the same Indo-European root as English 'tear', Latin 'lacrima', and Sanskrit 'aśru'. The connection between Greek δάκρυ and English 'tear' demonstrates a common Indo-European heritage, though they evolved different initial consonants.
Example Usage
Τα δάκρυα κύλησαν στα μάγουλά της.
The tears rolled down her cheeks.
Δάκρυα χαράς
Tears of joy
Ένα δάκρυ κύλησε στο μάγουλό της.
A tear rolled down her cheek.
Τα δάκρυα χαράς είναι τα πιο όμορφα δάκρυα.
Tears of joy are the most beautiful tears.
Σκούπισε τα δάκρυα από τα μάτια του.
He wiped the tears from his eyes.
Mnemonics
- Think of the English word 'lachrymose' (tearful) which comes from the same root.
- The sound 'δάκρυ' (dakry) can remind you of the sound of teardrops falling.
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, tears are often associated with strong emotions, both positive and negative. The expression of emotion through tears is culturally accepted and sometimes even expected in certain contexts like funerals, weddings, or religious ceremonies.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: δάκρυ and δάκρυο are essentially the same word with slightly different forms. δάκρυ is the more ancient form, while δάκρυο is more common in modern usage. They are used interchangeably.
Confused word:
Ένα δάκρυο έπεσε στο χαρτί.
A tear fell on the paper.
Notes: In everyday speech, δάκρυο is more commonly used, while δάκρυ might appear more in literature or poetic contexts.
Mnemonic: Both forms are correct - δάκρυ is just the shorter, more poetic version.
Explanation: While they look somewhat similar, δάκρυ means 'tear' while δάχτυλο means 'finger'. They have completely different meanings and origins.
Notes: The pronunciation is quite different: 'DAH-kree' versus 'DAHCH-tee-lo'.
Mnemonic: δάκρυ has 'κρ' (kr) like 'cry' for tears; δάχτυλο has 'χτ' (cht) which can remind you of touching with fingers.