Meraki
/məˈrɑːki/noun
The practice of doing something with creativity, care, and personal devotion, often described as putting part of one’s soul into it.
Did you know?Modern Greek μεράκι is generally traced through Turkish merak to an Arabic word associated with desire, interest, or eager concern, though the ultimate Arabic derivation is debated.
Etymological Timeline
Medieval Arabic
Arabic
marāq / maraq
“A debated source associated with desire, interest, or eager concern; the precise etymological connection is uncertain.”
Ottoman Turkish
Ottoman Turkish
merak
“Curiosity, interest, desire, or eager concern.”
Modern Turkish
Turkish
merak
“Curiosity, inquisitiveness, or strong interest.”
Modern Greek
Greek
μεράκι (meráki)
“Passion, care, enthusiasm, or devoted effort put into an activity.”
21st Century
English
meraki
“A loanword used in English for creative work performed with soul, care, and wholehearted devotion.”