8 Names Lebanese Guys Call Each Other And What They Really Mean

Ever since I moved here in 2006, I’ve been trying to get immersed into Lebanese culture as much as I can. Here are a couple of words you need to know to be accepted by Lebanese bros.

1. Asle or khayye el asle

Translation: my origin or my original brother.

Note that this can be said to anyone, you can even say it to the valet parking guy after he gives you change.

2. Shreek

Translation: partner.

This is used when you salute your Lebanese bro, it goes along the lines of: ahla shreek, wen hal ghaybe.

3. King or prince

No need for a translation here, this will be used when another Lebanese bro has done something impressive either with girls or during a game of cards.

4. Ghale

Translation: my precious.

This is only used for close Lebanese bros, this isn’t a casual word that’s thrown around to just anyone.

5. Dammete

Translation: my blood.

A term of great endearment, when you’re called dammete or damme, know you have a special place in that person’s heart.

6. Rayyes or ka2ed

Translation: leader.

Also used as a greeting for a bro that you are humbled by.

7. M3alem or estez or big boss

Translation: teacher or master of something.

This is a term a Lebanese guy says when he feels great respect to a fellow male. Or, to the coffee guy bringing you your ahwe kabesten.

8. Ya ayre

Translation: My penis.

This cheeky expression can be used both as a term of affection (because for a guy nothing is more important than his dick?) or as a derogatory term that usually goes like: “shu ya ayyyre?” emphasis on the “y”.

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