Arabic Words in Spanish
Traditions & Celebrations
Notable Figures
Food Fusion
Miscellaneous
100

This Spanish word for “orange” (the fruit) comes from the Arabic word “nāranj."

What is naranja?

100

This Arabic greeting, also known as Paz in Hispanic culture, means “Peace be upon you.”

What is As-Salaam-Alaikum? 

100

This New York Latina congresswoman, known for her progressive policies and outspoken advocacy.

Who is Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez?

100

This popular Middle Eastern dish made from chickpeas, often served with pita, has become a global favorite as a dip or spread.

What is hummus?

100

This iconic TV show about law students and their intense professor features the phrase "How to Get Away with _____."

What is Murder?

200

The Arabic term “al-qadi” led to this Spanish word meaning “judge.”

What is alcalde?

200

This popular Hispanic celebration, often held for girls on their 15th birthday, marks the transition into womanhood.

What is a Quinceañera?

200

This Puerto Rican musician is breaking records in global music charts and a strong advocate for gender equality. 

Who is Bad Bunny?

200

This sweet, fried dough pastry covered in cinnamon sugar is a classic dessert in Mexican cuisine.

What are churros?

200

This Bronx-born law student loves to shop and can often be found ice skating in their free time.

Who is Monika Herrera?

300

This Spanish word for a “pillow” comes from the Arabic “al-mukhadda.”

What is almohada?

300

This celebration marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan with prayers, feasts, and charity. 

What is Eid al-Fitr?

300

This Puerto Rican justice made history as the first Latina on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Who is Sonia Sotomayor?

300

This popular pastry, found across Latin America is often filled with meat or cheese, or sweet fillings has a similar version in Middle Eastern cuisine called samosa. 

What are empanadas?

300

This Bills fan and law student has Yemeni roots.

Who is Zackary Algawani? 

400

The Arabic term “al-jabr” contributed to this word in mathematics.

What is algebra?

400

This Hispanic New Year’s Eve tradition involves eating a specific number of grapes at midnight for good luck in the coming year.

What is twelve grapes?

400

This Pakistani education activist, who survived an attack by the Taliban, became the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize laureate and continues to advocate for girls’ education worldwide.

Who is Malala Yousafzai?

400

During Ramadan, Muslims traditionally break their fast with this sweet fruit. 

What are dates?

400

Known as “The Greatest,” this American boxer converted to Islam and used his platform for civil rights advocacy.

Who is Muhammad Ali?

500

This Spanish word, expressing hope or wishful thinking, originates from the Arabic phrase “Inshallah,” meaning “God willing.”

What is ojalá?

500

This special prayer is performed nightly during Ramadan, often reciting long portions of the Quran.

What is Taraweeh?

500

This former U.S. congresswoman was the first Somali-American and one of the first two Muslim women elected to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Who is Ilhan Omar?

500

This popular drink, made from rice, water, and sometimes flavored with cinnamon, has versions across Hispanic countries like Mexico and in Muslim countries like Egypt.

What is horchata?

500

This law-related Latin phrase means “in good faith” and is often used in legal contexts to describe honest intent.

What is bona fide?