κεφάλι
Wordform Details
Translation: headlife (figuratively)
Part of Speech: noun
Inflection Type:
neutersingularnominativeIs Dictionary Form: Yes
Dictionary Form Details
Lemma: κεφάλι
Translation: head; skull; noggin; mind (noun)
Etymology: From Medieval Greek κεφάλιον (kephalion), diminutive of Ancient Greek κεφαλή (kephalḗ, 'head'). The Ancient Greek root is related to English words like 'cephalic' (relating to the head), 'encephalitis' (inflammation of the brain), and 'hydrocephalus' (water on the brain). The Indo-European root *ghebh-el- is also the source of Germanic words like English 'gable'.
Example Usage
Το ζωηρό παιδί έπιασε το κεφάλι του όταν θύμωσε.
The lively child grabbed his head when he got angry.
Με πονάει το κεφάλι μου.
My head hurts.
Έχει καλό κεφάλι για μαθηματικά.
He has a good head for mathematics.
Κούνησε το κεφάλι του αρνητικά.
He shook his head negatively.
Βάλε το καπέλο στο κεφάλι σου.
Put the hat on your head.
Χτύπησε το κεφάλι του στον τοίχο.
He hit his head on the wall.
Mnemonics
- Think of 'cephalic' (relating to the head) to remember κεφάλι means 'head'
- The 'κεφ' sound is like the beginning of 'captain' - the head of a ship
Antonyms
Example Wordforms
Cultural Context
In Greek culture, the head is considered the seat of intelligence and reason. There are many idioms and expressions using 'κεφάλι' that relate to intelligence, stubbornness, or leadership. Touching someone's head, especially a child's, can be considered inappropriate in traditional contexts.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: Κεφαλή is the more formal, literary term for 'head', while κεφάλι is the everyday word. Κεφαλή is often used in formal contexts, official documents, or when referring to a leader or chief.
This word:
Χτύπησε το κεφάλι του.
He hit his head.
Notes: Κεφάλι is used in most everyday contexts, while κεφαλή appears in more formal or technical contexts.
Mnemonic: Κεφαλή ends with 'η' like 'hierarchy' - it's the formal, hierarchical term.
Explanation: While similar in sound, κέφι means 'good mood, cheer, high spirits' and has nothing to do with the physical head.
Notes: Κέφι is often used in phrases about being in a good mood or having fun.
Mnemonic: Κέφι sounds like 'café' - a place where people go to be in good spirits.