What does Habibi mean? Meaning of the term of endearment explained

Habibi is a common abbreviation in youth language, but not everyone knows its meaning. The Arabic word translates as ‘sweetheart’ or ‘darling’, but can also be used in the opposite sense.

The meaning of the youth word Habibi

The word habibi is part of everyday life for many young people. ‘Habibi’ was googled 72,000 times in 2019.

• The word Habibi comes from the Arabic language and is also a common family name in Arabic-speaking countries, especially in Iran.

• Habibi means ‘my lover’ or ‘my beloved’. Colloquially, young people use the word in a gender-neutral way – thus cleverly avoiding the question of gender. The correct Arabic form for a woman would be ‘Habibti’.

• The term became known worldwide in 1996 with the hit ‘Nour El Ain’. The Egyptian rapper Amr Diab repeatedly sings ‘Ya Habibi, Ya Habibi’ in the chorus.

How and when Habibi is used

Use the pet name Habibi correctly to rejuvenate your speech. Remember that the word is used colloquially. It is better not to address your superior in this way.

• Habibi, which also means ‘sweetheart’ or ‘darling’ in German, is not only used by lovers. In youth slang, good friends and buddies also use the term among themselves.

• For example, you can address a friend with Habibi instead of their name. Next time, say to your loved one: ‘Habibi, are we playing Fifa?’ or ‘Habibi, I miss you.’

• In a negative sense, habibi is also translated as ‘little friend’. The word can be added to the end of insults or complaints to express them. For example: ‘Hey, don’t make such a mess, Habibi!’