Arabic word sheet
مَعْرُوفٌ
What is fair and proper; a kindness
- Type
- noun
- Root
- ع ر ف
Meaning and usage
What is fair and proper; a kindness
It names what everyone recognises as right and proper in dealing with others, and also the kind act done for someone.
عَامَلَتِ الْمُعَلِّمَةُ الطُّلَّابَ بِمَعْرُوفٍ.
The teacher treated the students fairly.
Known, well known
Said of a person or thing that is known, and especially one that everybody knows.
الطَّبِيبُ مَعْرُوفٌ فِي الْمَدِينَةِ.
The doctor is well known in the town.
Word family
What the root means ع ر ف
The root carries the idea of knowing and recognising: what is known is familiar, and what all recognise as good is what is fitting. From it come accepted custom, the one who knows and what is known.
accepted custom
عُرْفٌ
one who knows
عَارِفٌ
odour, scent
عَرْفٌ
Synonyms
famous, widely known
مَشْهُورٌ
Implies a reputation that has spread and is talked about, stronger than simply being known.
kindness, doing good
إِحْسَانٌ
Names acting well towards someone, beyond what is merely due or customary.
Opposites
what is disapproved, improper
unknown
مَجْهُولٌ