# hala

CEFR C2 · Interjection

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hala
Updated: 2026-05-30

## Definition

a word used in Arabic-speaking cultures to say 'welcome' or to tell someone to hurry up. It is often used to show excitement or to encourage someone to start moving.

For teachers: an Arabic loanword used as a greeting or an exhortation to action. Often functions as a synonym for 'welcome' or 'let's go' in multicultural English contexts.

## Examples

- Hala! Please come inside and join us for dinner.
- As the players walked onto the pitch, the fans shouted 'Hala!' to encourage them to start the match with energy.
- The term hala has transcended its linguistic origins to become a recognizable marker of hospitality and collective enthusiasm in diverse urban centers.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the phrase 'Hala Madrid' or as a standalone greeting in informal settings.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.