halva

What is another word for halva? Here is its meaning, with related words and examples.

Noun — A dense sweet confection usually made from crushed sesame seeds and honey, eaten traditionally across South Asia, the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

We haven't recorded synonyms for halva yet. You can still read its full definition, where it comes from, or words that rhyme with it.

How to use halva

The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.

a slice of halva sesame halva pistachio halva a block of halva

The word is neutral and used the same way in everyday and formal contexts.

Etymology

Halva entered English from Yiddish khálva, which was borrowed from Romanian halva. That word traces back through Ottoman Turkish and Persian to Arabic ḥalwā, meaning a sweet.

Full origin of halva →

Frequently asked questions

What is halva made of?

Halva is usually made from crushed sesame seeds combined with honey, giving it a dense, crumbly texture.

Where does halva come from?

It is a traditional dessert across South Asia, the Mediterranean and the Middle East, and its name reached English by way of Yiddish, Romanian, Ottoman Turkish, Persian and ultimately Arabic.

Is halva the same as halvah?

Yes, halvah is simply an alternative spelling of halva.

Nearby words

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