Hookah

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈhʊkə/

Definitions

• A water pipe used for smoking flavored tobacco, often shared in social settings.
• A traditional smoking device originating from India and Persia, featuring a hose, a bowl, and a water chamber.

Usage Examples

• "They enjoyed a hookah session at the café, trying different fruit flavors."
• "The intricate design of the hookah made it a prized possession in the royal court."

Etymology

Derived from the Hindi-Urdu word huqqa, meaning "pot" or "jar." It has Persian and Arabic linguistic influences.

Synonyms

• Shisha
• Water pipe
• Nargile

Antonyms

• None (as it is a specific object)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• American English: /ˈhʊkə/
• British English: /ˈhʊkə/
• Indian English: /ˈhuːkka/

Historical Usage

The hookah was historically used by Indian and Persian aristocracy, later spreading to the Ottoman Empire and beyond as a symbol of hospitality.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, smoking a hookah is a social activity. It is popular in Middle Eastern, Indian, and North African traditions, where it is often accompanied by tea and conversation.

More Information

The hookah remains widely used today, both traditionally and in modern lounges worldwide. While associated with relaxation and social bonding, health concerns regarding tobacco and nicotine consumption persist in scientific discussions.