Beirut etymology

Etymology:

The name "Beirut" is derived from the Canaanite word "Bēʾrūt", meaning "wells" or "springs".

Meaning:

Beirut's name signifies its historical importance as a source of fresh water in the region. The city was known as a fertile land with underground aquifers and natural springs, which attracted settlers and made it a significant trading hub.

Origin:

The first known mention of Beirut dates back to an ancient Egyptian inscription from the 15th century BCE, referring to the city as "Berytus". Beirut was also mentioned in the Hebrew Bible as "Beeroth", which means "cisterns" or "wells of water".

Over the centuries, the city has been known by various names, including:

  • Phoenician: Brt (meaning "grain pits")
  • Greek: Bērytos (from the Canaanite "Bēʾrūt")
  • Roman: Berytus (a Latinized form of the Greek name)
  • Arabic: Bayrūt (derived from the Canaanite and Arabic terms for "wells")

Today, the official Arabic name of the city is "Bayrūt", while the official French name is "Beyrouth".

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