Dhivehi language academy approves new words

The Academy of Dhivehi Language has approved newly created Dhivehi words over the past two years, replacing commonly used foreign terms.

The Language Committee of the Academy determines the meaning of new words introduced into the Dhivehi language. Over the past two years, the committee has created 160 words. The new words were signed and approved by the Academy’s President, Dr Ashraf Abdul Raheem, on Tuesday.

Unlike previous approvals, some foreign words have been incorporated as loanwords. Arabic words such as Suhoor, Tanzeem, Zauj, and Ameed have now been officially recognised in Dhivehi. Suhoor refers to the pre-dawn meal during fasting, Zauj denotes a spouse, and Ameed refers to the head of a college or university.

Additionally, some commonly used English words have been adapted into Dhivehi by modifying their structure. Examples include:

The Hindi word moothra (urination) has been replaced with mooth.

Other newly introduced words include:

While similar words have been introduced in the past, many foreign words continue to be used in their original form.