Greek Alphabet
Greek Lessons
by Patty Apostolides In my novel, Lipsi's Daughter, I use some Greek words that may seem confusing to the readers. You've heard the term "It's all Greek to me!"
But we don't want our readers saying that, so we've added a list of translations with the book to make it easier for you.
Below, I will try and explain what some of the words mean. Also, for those of you who would like to not only say the word, but taste it, too, check out the Greek recipe link below.
Achladi = Pear
Agori = boy
Avgolemeno = Rice soup with eggs and lemon. Great on a cold winter day!
Baklava = sweet phyllo pastry filled with walnuts and smothered with a honey syrup.
Barba = friendly expression used to denote respect for an elder (mostly used for men)
Dolmades = grape leaves stuffed with rice and beef.
Efharisto = Thank you.
Ella etho = Come here.
Foostah = Skirt
Kali Mera = Good Morning
Kali Nichta = Good Night
Koulouraki = Greek crisp, cookie, usually braided
Leventi = an expression of admiration used on young men who are a cut above the rest -either through honor/heroics.
Koumbara = Parent's relationship with the Godmother.
Koritsi = girl
Mizithra = goat cheese
Nona = Godmother
Meli = Honey
Parakaloh = You are welcome
Pantelonee = Pants
Porta = Door
Tavli = Backgammon
Psomee = Bread
Trapezee = Table
Vassilopita = Rich, sweet bread that is baked for New Years. A coin is inserted, and when they cut the bread, whomever gets the coin has good luck for that whole year!
Yiasou! = A general greeting, whether you're coming or going, originally meant "health to you".
(I will be continually upgrading this page, so please come back!)