15 English Words That Come From Persian
15 English words that come from Persian, from paradise to pajama. See the surprising Farsi roots behind everyday words and start learning Persian free.
English Words With Persian Roots
English is full of words that come from Persian. Many arrived through trade, food, and travel over centuries.
You likely use several every day without knowing their Farsi origin.
Here are 15 English words that come from Persian, with their roots.
15 Words and Their Origins
- Paradise, from pardis (پردیس), a walled garden.
- Pajama, from pa,jama (پاجامه), leg garment.
- Bazaar, from bazar (بازار), a market.
- Caravan, from karvan (کاروان), a travel group.
- Lemon, from limu (لیمو).
- Orange, from narang (نارنگ).
- Spinach, from esfenaj (اسفناج).
- Kiosk, from kushk (کوشک), a pavilion.
- Shawl, from shal (شال).
- Candy, from qand (قند), sugar.
- Checkmate, from shah mat (شاه مات), the king is helpless.
- Tiger, linked to tigra, sharp.
- Jackal, from shghal (شغال).
- Magic, linked to the magi, Persian priests.
- Pistachio, from pesteh (پسته).
Why So Many Words Traveled
Persian was a language of trade, poetry, and empire. Words moved along the Silk Road and through cooking.
Many came into English through French, Arabic, or Turkish first. The Farsi root stayed close.
Spotting these links makes Persian feel familiar before you even start.
Turn Curiosity Into Learning
If these roots surprised you, the language itself will delight you. Persian is warm, poetic, and easier than it looks.
Start with basic Farsi words and the Farsi alphabet.
Open the free lessons on Learn Farsi and learn real Persian today.