A Note about Greek Words
254 Words
A Note about Greek words
Readers without a knowledge of Greek might like to know about one or two things that they will notice in the book.
Greek names sometimes have changed endings when the person is directly addressed. You will see Thanasis become Thanasi, Andreas become Andrea, and Aristos become Aristo.
Spellings most likely to help with pronunciation are used in this book.
The main town of Naxos is called Chora (and also Naxos). You pronounce the ch in Chora as in the Scottish ‘loch’. Similarly, Halki (sometimes written as Chalki) begins with that sound.
Kyrie and Kyria are forms of address like monsieur and madame
Mou means my and is often used after a name as a term of affection
Agapi mou - my dear
Kali Orexi - Bon appétit
Efharisto - Thank you
Efharistoume - We thank you
Kalimera - Hello, Good morning
Kalispera - Good evening
Kalinichta - Goodnight
Kalos Irthatay! - Welcome
Ti kaneis - How are you?
Kala. Eseis? - I’m well, and you?
Stin yia sas! - Good health!
Oriste! is a common way to answer the phone.
filoxenia - traditional hospitality
estiatorio - restaurant
Paralia Votsala - bay of pebbles
mikri agora - mini market
periptero - kiosk
Agia Anna - St Anna
Agios Ioannis - St John
maquis - typical scrub vegetation
meltemi - prevailing wind in the Cyclades
elliniko kafes - Greek coffee
kitron - a large, solid citrus fruit famous on Naxos
kouneli stifado - rabbit casserole
gigantes - a dish of baked giant beans
patates fournou - roast potatoes
mezethes - small savoury bites to have with ouzo (sing. meze)
tsipouro - distilled spirit
tzatziki - yogurt, garlic and cucumber
katsikaki - baby goat
horta - green vegetables (leaves)
- Writer
