Persian · Food & Drink

شیر

shir

Milk; lion; tap

Beginnernoun

Definition

One famous word, three meanings: milk, lion, and faucet — context is everything!

Example

هر صبح یک لیوان شیر می‌نوشم.

Every morning I drink a glass of milk.

Etymology

'شیر' (shir) has multiple meanings, stemming from the Middle Persian term 'شیر' (šir), which originally meant 'lion' and evolved to include meanings related to milk and tap. Its historical significance is tied to strength and nourishment.

How & Where It’s Used

'شیر' appears in both spoken and written forms in formal and informal contexts, commonly referring to milk in daily life and in discussions about nutrition, while 'lion' connotations surface in literary references.

Literary Heritage

The term is notably featured in Persian poetry, symbolizing bravery and valor, as well as in classic fables that discuss nourishment and strength.

Watch “Milk; lion; tap” pronunciation on YouTube
drinkhomonym

Related Terms