In the Persian language, love is not a single word. It is an entire world. A living, breathing constellation of feeling, care, and connection. The language does not reduce love to something simple or generic. Instead, it honors love in many forms, giving it dozens of names, each one carrying its own shape, rhythm, and emotional depth. From the poetic cries of longing found in classical verse to the soft-spoken nicknames shared in kitchens, hallways, and quiet moments at night, love is expressed not through one definition but through the gentle patterns of daily devotion.
This collection brings together fifty unique words and expressions of love and affection in Persian. These are not phrases lifted from textbooks. They are emotional imprints. They are the words lovers whisper when separation hurts. They are the names parents use when their voices soften with care. They are the ways friends offer comfort without needing explanation. Each one reflects how Persian culture speaks from the heart and treats love as something to be lived with reverence and sincerity.
Some of these words capture passion. Others speak to loyalty, admiration, tenderness, or emotional safety. Together, they reveal a culture that welcomes vulnerability and expresses connection through language that feels personal and timeless. To speak these words is to let someone into your inner world. Even the lightest nicknames carry meaning. Even the most poetic terms are grounded in real, lived experience. In Persian, love is more than emotion. It is a practice of presence, a way of showing up with kindness and warmth.
This is the language of love and affection in its full expression. It includes the soulful and the playful, the heartfelt and the sacred. It shows how language can hold people close even across distance. And it reminds us that when we speak with care and name each other with love, connection does not fade. It lives on in every word.
1. عاشقانه
āsheghāne (ā-she-ghā-ne)
Closest English: romantically, in a loving way
Āsheghāne is a word that is used to describe an action or a feeling that is romantic and loving. It is an adverb that is used to describe the way someone acts, speaks, or feels. The word is used to express a kind of love that is poetic and heartfelt. It is a word that is often used in poetry and literature to describe the actions of lovers. Āsheghāne is a beautiful word that captures the essence of a love that is not just a feeling, but a way of being. It is a word that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic and heartfelt nature of Persian language.
Example: “او عاشقانه به او نگاه کرد.” → “Ou āsheghāne be ou negāh kard.” → “He looked at her romantically.”
2. عاشقتم
āsheghetam (ā-she-ghet-am)
Closest English: I’m in love with you
Āsheghetam is a direct and passionate declaration of love. It is a stronger and more romantic phrase than “I love you” (dooset dāram), often used to convey the full weight of being in love. The word comes from āshegh, meaning lover, and is used to tell someone that you have fallen deeply for them. This phrase is typically reserved for romantic partners and is a significant expression of commitment and devotion. It is an invitation into your emotional core, implying a moment of deep vulnerability and honesty. Saying this to someone is a pivotal moment in a relationship, a true and open confession of love. It is an emotional promise that you are fully invested in them.
Example: “از صمیم قلب عاشقتم.” → “Az samim-e ghalb āsheghetam.” → “I am in love with you from the bottom of my heart.”
3. عسلم
asalam (a-sa-lam)
Closest English: my honey
Asalam is a shortened and more common form of “ghande asalam.” It literally means “my honey” and is used as a simple and sweet term of endearment. The word is versatile and can be used in almost any close relationship, from romantic partners to friends and family. It is a warm and gentle word that conveys affection and a sense of closeness. Asalam is a perfect example of a word that is both simple and deeply heartfelt. It is a word that is spoken with a kind and loving tone.
Example: “ممنونم عسلم، خیلی به من کمک کردی.” → “Mamnounam asalam, kheyli be man komak kardi.” → “Thank you my honey, you helped me a lot.”
4. عزیز دلم
azize delam (a-zee-ze de-lam)
Closest English: dear of my heart
Azize delam is a more poetic and loving phrase than just “azizam.” It literally means “dear of my heart” and is used to express a deep and profound love. This phrase is a beautiful way to say that the person is not just dear to you, but that they are the very essence of your heart. It is a term that you would use for a partner, a child, or a very close family member to show them how much they mean to you. It is a phrase that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic nature of Persian language.
Example: “تو عزیز دلم هستی.” → “To azize delam hasti.” → “You are the dear of my heart.”
5. عزیز دلم
azizdeldam (a-zee-ze de-lam)
Closest English: my heart’s dear one
Azizdeldam is a very poetic and loving phrase that is a more affectionate form of “azizam.” It literally means “dear of my heart” and is used to express a deep and profound love. This phrase is a beautiful way to say that the person is not just dear to you, but that they are the very essence of your heart. It is a term that you would use for a partner, a child, or a very close family member to show them how much they mean to you. It is a phrase that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic nature of Persian language.
Example: “تو عزیز دلم هستی.” → “To azizdeldam hasti.” → “You are the dear of my heart.”
6. عزیزم
azīzam (a-zee-zam)
Closest English: my dear, darling
Azīzam means “my precious” and is one of the most common and beloved words to express affection. It is a versatile term used between partners, parents and children, friends, and even to show care to strangers. This word brings a profound softness to conversation and makes the listener feel cherished and important without needing a dramatic display. It communicates gentle concern and devotion in everyday life, serving as a beautiful bridge between emotional closeness and daily speech. Azīzam is a small, quiet kindness that reminds the other person they are deeply valued. The word carries a tone of emotional grounding and is a verbal hug that wraps the listener in a sense of being cared for.
Example: “دلم برات تنگ شده عزیزم.” → “Delam barāt tang shode azīzam.” → “I missed you, my dear.”
7. بیقرارم
bighararam (bi-gha-raa-ram)
Closest English: I am restless (from longing)
Bighararam is a poetic and deeply emotional word that describes a state of emotional unrest and longing for a loved one. It literally means “I am without peace,” and it is used to express a profound sadness or restlessness that comes from being separated from the person you love. This is a word that you would say to your beloved or a very close friend to confess the depth of your emotional need for them. It is not just a feeling of missing someone, but a physical and emotional state of being unsettled and incomplete without their presence.
Example: “شبها بیقرارم، دلم برایت تنگ شده.” → “Shabhā bighararam, delam barāyat tang shode.” → “I am restless at nights, I miss you.”
8. بوسه
boose (boo-se)
Closest English: kiss
Boose is the simple and direct word for a kiss. A boose is a sign of love, affection, and respect. It can be a tender peck on the cheek for a child, a respectful kiss on the hand of an elder, or a passionate kiss between lovers. It is a universal gesture, but in Persian culture, a kiss on the cheek or forehead is a common way to express genuine fondness and care for family and close friends. The act of a boose is a physical moment of connection that speaks more than words, conveying warmth and affection in a simple gesture.
Example: “او یک بوسه بر پیشانی فرزندش زد.” → “Ou yek boose bar pishāni-ye farzandash zad.” → “She gave a kiss on her child’s forehead.”
9. دلبر
delbar (del-bar)
Closest English: heart stealer, sweetheart
Delbar literally means “someone who has taken your heart,” and it carries a playful yet sincere tone of deep admiration. This word often implies a person’s beauty, charm, or alluring quality that captivates the senses and emotions. In poetry, the delbar is the irresistible muse who makes the poet lose sleep and words. It is a word of emotional surrender, used to confess not just affection but a genuine fascination. The word honors the magnetism of a connection that goes beyond reason and enters the territory of enchantment. It suggests that love can be a little irrational, a little wild, and very much alive.
Example: “دلبر من، لبخندت دنیا را روشن میکند.” → “Delbar-e man, labkhandat donyā rā roshan mikonad.” → “My sweetheart, your smile lights up the world.”
10. دلبرانه
delbarāne (del-ba-rā-ne)
Closest English: coquettishly, in a flirtatious way
Delbarāne is a word that is used to describe a person’s behavior or actions that are charming, flirtatious, or even a little mischievous. It is a word that is often used to describe the actions of a “delbar” (heart-stealer), and it implies a kind of playful and alluring quality. The word is used to describe a person who is charming in a way that is both innocent and captivating. Delbarāne is a word that is used to show a kind of lighthearted and joyful love, and it is a perfect example of the playful nature of affection in Persian culture.
Example: “او با یک لبخند دلبرانه به من نگاه کرد.” → “Ou bā yek labkhand-e delbarāne be man negāh kard.” → “She looked at me with a flirtatious smile.”
11. دلبری
delbari (del-ba-ree)
Closest English: charming, flirtatious
Delbari is a word that is used to describe a person’s quality of being charming, flirtatious, or even a little mischievous. It is a word that is often used to describe the actions of a “delbar” (heart-stealer), and it implies a kind of playful and alluring quality. The word is used to describe a person who is charming in a way that is both innocent and captivating. Delbari is a word that is used to show a kind of lighthearted and joyful love, and it is a perfect example of the playful nature of affection in Persian culture.
Example: “دلبریهای او مرا دیوانه کرد.” → “Delbari-hāye ou marā divāne kard.” → “Her flirtatious charm drove me crazy.”
12. دلدار
deldār (del-dār)
Closest English: heart holder, beloved one
Deldār refers to someone who holds your heart, a term of poetic intensity and emotional gravity. It goes beyond simple affection and names the beloved as someone with emotional significance. When someone is your deldār, they occupy a central space in your emotional world. This word implies that your heart is not just theirs, but that they know how to carry it gently. It is often used in classical literature and poetry and reflects both admiration and emotional dependence, acknowledging the beloved’s power over your inner world. The term is a way of expressing complete emotional trust in another person, a recognition that they are a safe place for your most vulnerable feelings.
Example: “دلداری چون تو ندارم.” → “Deldāri chon to nadāram.” → “I have no beloved like you.”
13. دلنشین
delneshīn (del-ne-sheen)
Closest English: pleasing to the heart
Delneshīn is a beautiful word used to describe someone or something that resonates deeply with your heart. It can be used for people, voices, music, places, or even memories. The phrase captures the idea of emotional comfort and aesthetic joy. When someone is delneshīn, they are soothing, inspiring, and emotionally satisfying. They do not just appeal to the mind or the eye, they land softly in the heart. It implies emotional depth and inner peace rather than external beauty alone. Delneshīn is about the emotional residue a person or a moment leaves behind, the feeling that stays with you long after they are gone. The word is used to describe a quiet and profound beauty that is felt more than it is seen.
Example: “صدای تو چقدر دلنشین است.” → “Sedāye to cheghadr delneshīn ast.” → “Your voice is so pleasing to the heart.”
14. دلتنگم
deltangam (del-tan-gam)
Closest English: I miss you
Deltangam literally means “my heart is tight” and is a profound way to say “I miss you.” This phrase beautifully captures the physical ache of longing for someone who is not present. It is more than just a casual statement; it is a confession of the emotional and physical impact of their absence. This is a word you would say to a close friend or a family member you have not seen in a long time. It shows that your bond with them is so strong that their absence creates a palpable sadness in your heart. Sharing this feeling is a gesture of deep emotional intimacy and trust. The word acknowledges that love is not always joyful, but also a source of deep and sometimes painful longing.
Example: “واقعا دلتنگم، کی دوباره میبینمت؟” → “Vāqe’an deltangam, key dobāre mibinamet?” → “I really miss you, when will I see you again.”
15. عشقم
eshgham (esh-gham)
Closest English: my love
Eshgham is the possessive form of eshgh, meaning love. Saying eshgham to someone is one of the most direct and passionate declarations of love in Persian. It centers the other person as the embodiment of love itself—not just someone you love, but your love personified. This word often comes with deep eye contact and sincerity. It is not used lightly. Whether whispered or written, it holds emotional gravity. It is often used between romantic partners but can be heard between parents and children in deeply affectionate moments. Saying eshgham is an invitation into your emotional core, implying devotion, loyalty, and emotional priority.
Example: “عشقم، همیشه با من بمان.” → “Eshgham, hamishe bā man bemān.” → “My love, stay with me always.”
16. عشق منی
eshgh-e mani (eshgh-e ma-ni)
Closest English: you are my love
Eshgh-e mani is a powerful and direct declaration of love. It literally means “you are my love,” and it is used to express a deep and profound love. This phrase is typically reserved for romantic partners and is a significant expression of commitment and devotion. It is an invitation into your emotional core, implying a moment of deep vulnerability and honesty. Saying eshgh-e mani is an ultimate way to tell someone that they are the personification of love in your life.
Example: “تو عشق منی.” → “To eshgh-e mani.” → “You are my love.”
17. عشق
eshgh (eshgh)
Closest English: love
Eshgh is the most direct and profound word for love in Persian. It is an all-encompassing term for a powerful, passionate, and often spiritual love. This is the kind of love that is the subject of classical poetry and Sufi mysticism, a love so overwhelming it can be transformative and all-consuming. In Persian literature, eshgh is often portrayed as a powerful and sometimes painful force that leads to a profound spiritual awakening. It is not a word used casually, but reserved for a deep, life altering emotion. While it is most commonly used for romantic love, it can also refer to a love for God, a homeland, or a philosophical ideal that has taken hold of one’s entire being.
Example: “عشق به یکدیگر زندگی را شیرینتر میکند.” → “Eshgh be yelldigar zendegi rā shirintar mikonad.” → “Love for one another makes life sweeter.”
18. فدات شم
fadāt sham (fa-daat sham)
Closest English: I’d die for you
Fadāt sham is a casual yet deeply affectionate phrase that literally means “I would sacrifice myself for you.” It is often used playfully, especially between close friends and lovers, but its emotional roots are serious. It reflects a cultural value that sees love as something inherently selfless. When you say fadāt sham, you are telling someone that they matter more than your comfort, and sometimes even your safety. It is an expression of deep affection that is often exaggerated and poetic, but the underlying sentiment of love and care is always sincere.
Example: “فدات شم، زنگ بزن حتماً.” → “Fadāt sham, zang bezan hatman.” → “I’d die for you, make sure you call.”
19. فدای سرت
faday-e sarat (fa-daa-ye sa-rat)
Closest English: it’s a minor issue (your well-being is more important)
Faday-e sarat is a comforting and reassuring phrase that literally means “it is a sacrifice for your head.” It is used to console someone when they have made a mistake or lost something, implying that their well-being is far more important than the issue at hand. It is a phrase used between close friends or family to show that you care more about them than their mistake or loss. This phrase is a powerful emotional statement because it prioritizes a person’s worth over their actions or material possessions, showing a deep love and care.
Example: “نگران نباش، فدای سرت، دوباره میخریم.” → “Negarān nabāsh, faday-e sarat, dobāre mikharim.” → “Don’t worry, it is a sacrifice for your head, we will buy it again.”
20. فدای تو
faday-e to (fa-daa-ye to)
Closest English: I would die for you
Faday-e to is an emotional expression of endearment that literally means “I would sacrifice myself for you.” While the literal meaning is intense, it is most often used as a casual and affectionate way to say thank you or to express deep gratitude and love for someone. It is a powerful declaration of emotional devotion, even in a playful or lighthearted context. The phrase speaks to the cultural value of selflessness and the emotional bonds that unite people. It’s a verbal hug that wraps the listener in warmth and importance, making them feel profoundly cherished.
Example: “فدای تو، ممنون بابت کمکت.” → “Faday-e to, mamnoun babat-e komaket.” → “I would die for you, thank you for your help.”
21. قلبم
ghalbam (ghal-bam)
Closest English: my heart
Ghalbam is a word that literally means “my heart.” It is a common and sincere way to express a deep and profound love. When you tell someone “ghalbam,” you are telling them that they are a part of your heart and that they hold a special place in your life. It is a word that is often used in close relationships, from romantic partners to family members. It is a word that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic nature of the Persian language.
Example: “تو قلبم هستی.” → “To ghalbam hasti.” → “You are in my heart.”
22. قند عسلم
ghande asalam (ghande a-sa-lam)
Closest English: my sugar, my honey
Ghande asalam is a very sweet and loving nickname that literally combines “sugar cube” (ghand) with “my honey” (asalam). The phrase is used to express a deep and joyful love, often in a playful or lighthearted way. It is a common term of endearment used by parents for their children or by partners for each other. It implies that the person being addressed is a source of happiness and sweetness in your life. The phrase is a perfect example of how the Persian language uses poetic and descriptive imagery to express affection. It is a word that brings a smile to the heart.
Example: “قند عسلم، بیا اینجا ببینمت.” → “Ghande asalam, biyā injā bebinamet.” → “My honey-sugar, come here so I can see you.”
23. قربانت
ghorbānat (ghor-baa-nat)
Closest English: I’d sacrifice myself for you (casual)
Ghorbānat is a highly affectionate and slightly dramatic term of endearment that is a shortened, more casual version of ghorban-e shoma. It literally means “I would sacrifice myself for you.” It is used between close friends, lovers, and family members. It is often a response to a compliment or an act of kindness, showing that the other person’s effort is so valued it is worthy of a great sacrifice. This word is a perfect example of how the Persian language uses hyperbole to show deep appreciation and love. The phrase is a lighthearted but sincere way of showing devotion.
Example: “قربانت، تو همیشه به من کمک میکنی.” → “Ghorbānat, to hamishe be man komak mikoni.” → “I’d sacrifice myself for you, you always help me.”
24. همدل
hamdel (ham-del)
Closest English: of the same heart, in agreement
Hamdel is a word that describes a feeling of being “of the same heart.” It is a word that is used to describe a connection that is so deep and sincere that you and another person are in complete emotional agreement. It implies a kind of understanding and empathy that goes beyond words. Hamdel relationships are built on a foundation of mutual respect and emotional closeness, and they are a perfect example of the poetic nature of Persian language. It is a word that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the heartfelt nature of Persian language.
Example: “ما با هم همدل هستیم.” → “Mā bā ham hamdel hastim.” → “We are of the same heart.”
25. همدم
hamdam (ham-dam)
Closest English: kindred spirit, soulmate
Hamdam refers to someone who walks beside you in life, someone whose presence feels like home. It combines two parts: ham meaning together, and dam meaning breath or moment. Literally, it describes someone who shares your breath or life rhythm. Calling someone your hamdam means they are your emotional companion, someone who matches your pace and sees you deeply. It is a relationship of mutual understanding without the need for constant explanation. Hamdam relationships are not defined by intensity, but by emotional steadiness and presence. It is often romantic, but not always, and is a deeply treasured connection in a world of fleeting relationships.
Example: “در تمام سالها، او همدم من بود.” → “Dar tamām sālhā, ou hamdam-e man bood.” → “She was my soulmate.”
26. همنفس
hamnafas (ham-na-fas)
Closest English: breath-sharer, soul companion
Hamnafas is one of the most profound expressions of connection in Persian. It literally means “someone who shares your breath,” evoking the idea of complete spiritual and emotional closeness. This person is so attuned to you that they breathe with you—they feel what you feel. It’s a term that suggests harmony, empathy, and unspoken understanding. A hamnafas is someone with whom you can sit in silence and still feel heard. In poetry, it is the partner of the soul, the one whose presence is as essential and natural as breath itself. To be someone’s hamnafas is to be a part of their inner rhythm, quietly and forever.
Example: “او همنفس من در زندگی است.” → “Ou hamnafas-e man dar zendegi ast.” → “She is the breath-sharer of my life.”
27. همراز
hamrāz (ham-raaz)
Closest English: confidant, trusted companion
Hamrāz literally means “someone who shares your secrets.” It is a word that reflects deep trust and emotional intimacy. In Persian culture, where modesty and restraint are often valued, a hamrāz is someone who has earned access to your inner world. This person is not just a friend or a lover—they are someone you confide in during your most vulnerable moments. A hamrāz listens without judgment, holds your fears without using them against you, and remembers your truths even when you forget them yourself. The beauty of this word is that it implies mutuality—you are each other’s vaults, keepers of pain and joy alike.
Example: “او تنها همراز من بود.” → “Ou tanhā hamrāz-e man bood.” → “He was my only confidant.”
28. همسر
hamsar (ham-sar)
Closest English: spouse, life partner
Hamsar is the formal and respectful word for “spouse” or “life partner.” The word is composed of two parts: ham meaning together, and sar, meaning head. It literally means “one who shares a head” or “one who shares a destiny.” This beautiful word suggests that a husband and wife are not just partners in life, but are deeply intertwined, sharing the same thoughts, dreams, and life path. Hamsar is a word that is used to show a deep respect and reverence for one’s life partner, and it is a perfect example of the poetic nature of the Persian language.
Example: “او همسر من است.” → “Ou hamsar-e man ast.” → “She is my spouse.”
29. همراه
hamrāh (ham-raah)
Closest English: companion, fellow traveler
Hamrāh is a simple but powerful word that means “companion” or “fellow traveler.” It literally means “together on the road.” This word is used to describe someone who is with you on a journey, both literally and metaphorically. A hamrāh is a person who stands by your side, supporting you and sharing your experiences. This word suggests a bond of loyalty and a shared sense of purpose. It is a deeply felt acknowledgment of a partnership, signifying that you are not alone in life’s journey and have a trusted companion to walk with you.
Example: “او در طول سفر، همراه من بود.” → “Ou dar toul-e safar, hamrāh-e man bood.” → “He was my companion during the trip.”
30. جان
jān (jān)
Closest English: soul, life
Jān is a fundamental word in Persian that means “soul” or “life.” It is a very versatile word that is used to express a deep and sincere love. When you call someone jān, you are telling them that they are a part of your very being. It is a word that is often used in close relationships, from romantic partners to family members. It is a word that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic nature of the Persian language.
Example: “جان من، حالت چطوره؟” → “Jān-e man, hālat chetore?” → “My dear, how are you?”
31. جانان
jānān (jaa-naan)
Closest English: beloved, one of the soul
Jānān is a term of profound endearment, often used in classical poetry to describe the ultimate beloved. It is not just about emotional closeness but a spiritual connection as well. This word suggests that love is sacred and transformative. The beloved is not just loved, they are elevated to a special place in the soul. Saying jānān means you have placed someone on a pedestal in your heart, seeing them as a muse, a light, and a source of healing. It is a word for lovers who wait across lifetimes and distances, a kind of love that transcends logic and is a profound act of reverence.
Example: “جانان من، در قلبم همیشه جایی داری.” → “Jānān-e man, dar qalbam hamishe jāyi dāri.” → “My beloved, you always have a place in my heart.”
32. جان و دل
jān-o del (jaa-no del)
Closest English: my soul and heart
Jān-o del is a powerful phrase that means “my soul and heart.” It is a way of expressing the full weight of your love and devotion to someone. It is a phrase used in a moment of deep sincerity, often to a partner or a child, to let them know that your love for them is complete and total. It is not just an emotional love, but a spiritual and physical love that comes from your entire being. This phrase is a beautiful expression for a relationship, as it speaks to a love that is whole and undivided.
Example: “تو جان و دل من هستی.” → “To jān-o del-e man hasti.” → “You are my soul and heart.”
33. جگر / جگر جون
jigar / jigar joon (ji-gar / ji-gar joon)
Closest English: sweetheart, dear
Jigar / Jigar joon is a common, conversational term of endearment. “Jigar” on its own is a simple and friendly way to say “sweetheart” or “dear.” Adding “joon” to the end makes it a little more affectionate and casual, similar to saying “babe” or “honey” in English. It is a term that is often used between close friends and family, and it is a way of showing warmth and affection in an everyday context. It’s a versatile word that can be used in almost any close relationship, and it is a great example of how affection is integrated into the Persian language.
Example: “خوبی جگر جون؟” → “Khoobi jigar joon?” → “Are you okay, sweetheart?”
34. جگر طلا
jigar tala (ji-gar ta-laa)
Closest English: golden liver
Jigar tala is a slang term of endearment that literally means “golden liver,” which in Persian culture is a way of saying “my precious” or “my treasure.” The word “jigar” is often used to describe the most essential and precious part of a person, and adding “tala” (gold) elevates it to a very special, one-of-a-kind term of endearment. It is a playful and affectionate phrase that is often used by parents for their children or by partners for each other. It is a term that shows a great deal of love and admiration in a unique and heartfelt way.
Example: “جگر طلا، به من نگاه کن.” → “Jigar tala, be man negah kon.” → “My precious, look at me.”
35. محبوبم
mahboobam (mah-boo-bam)
Closest English: my beloved
Mahboobam is a formal and romantic term for a loved one. The word comes from the root of “mahboob,” meaning beloved or popular. It is a classic term used in poetry and literature to describe a loved one. It is a word that is used to show a deep and sincere love, but it also carries a sense of reverence and respect. Mahboobam is a word that you would use for a partner to express a love that is both profound and traditional. The word is elegant and beautiful, and it speaks to a love that is timeless.
Example: “محبوبم، همیشه در قلب من هستی.” → “Mahboobam, hamishe dar ghalb-e man hasti.” → “My beloved, you are always in my heart.”
36. مهر و محبت
mehr-o mohabat (mehr-o mo-ha-bat)
Closest English: love and kindness
Mehr-o mohabat is a phrase that combines the two most important words in Persian for love and kindness. It describes a deep affection that is built on a foundation of genuine care and compassion. This phrase is often used to describe the ideal kind of love in a family or a marriage, where love is not just a feeling, but a daily practice of kindness. It suggests a bond that is both emotionally rich and socially responsible. It is a quiet but powerful force that makes life better for everyone involved. The phrase is a reminder that true affection is not about grand gestures, but about the steady and reliable warmth that is shared in everyday moments.
Example: “زندگی ما پر از مهر و محبت است.” → “Zendegi-ye mā por az mehr-o mohabat ast.” → “Our life is full of love and kindness.”
37. محبت
mohabat (mo-ha-bat)
Closest English: affection, kindness
Mohabat is a word that describes a feeling of affection and kindness. It is a softer, gentler form of love than eshgh, and is often used to describe the love between family members or friends. It is a feeling of warmth, care, and emotional closeness. A person who shows mohabat is one who is kind and considerate to others. This word is a powerful, quiet force that makes life better for everyone involved. It is not a grand passion, but a steady and reliable warmth that is the foundation of all healthy and loving relationships.
Example: “محبت پدرش نسبت به او بی حد و مرز بود.” → “Mohabat-e pedarash nesbat be ou bi had-o marz bood.” → “His father’s affection for him was endless.”
38. مونس
mo’nes (mo-nes)
Closest English: companion, soul-friend
Mo’nes is a timeless word used to describe someone whose presence soothes your solitude. A mo’nes is more than just company—they are the person who brings peace to your heart simply by being near. In Persian literature, mo’nes appears often as a figure who brings light into emotional darkness. This person is emotionally attuned and spiritually grounding. Mo’nes relationships tend to be quiet, consistent, and deeply nurturing. They don’t overwhelm; they restore. The word suggests that true companionship isn’t loud—it’s safe. It’s the warm silence of being understood without needing to explain, one of the most sacred forms of emotional intimacy.
Example: “او در روزهای سخت، مونس دل من بود.” → “Ou dar roozhāye sakht, mo’nes-e del-e man bood.” → “In hard days, she was the companion of my heart.”
39. نفس
nafas (na-fas)
Closest English: breath, life
Nafas is a fundamental word in Persian that means “breath” or “life.” As a term of endearment, it is one of the most powerful and intimate ways to express love. When you call someone nafas, you are telling them that they are as essential to you as the very air you breathe. It implies a connection that is spiritual, vital, and deeply emotional. This word is used to express a love that goes beyond the physical and into the core of one’s being. It is a word of devotion and vulnerability, signifying that the beloved is a life-giving force and a constant source of inspiration.
Example: “تو نفس منی.” → “To nafas-e man hasti.” → “You are my breath.”
40. نفس منی
nafas-e mani (na-fas-e ma-ni)
Closest English: you are my breath
Nafas-e mani is a more explicit and intimate expression of love than the word nafas alone. It literally means “you are my breath,” and is used to tell someone that they are as essential to you as the very air you breathe. It implies a connection that is spiritual, vital, and deeply emotional. You would say this to a partner or a child to show them how much they mean to you. This is a word of devotion and vulnerability, signifying that the beloved is a life-giving force and a constant source of inspiration. It is a phrase that centers the other person as the very source of life itself.
Example: “تو زندگی منی، نفس منی.” → “To zendegi-ye mani, nafas-e mani.” → “You are my life, you are my breath.”
41. نازنینم
nazaninam (na-za-ni-nam)
Closest English: my sweet, my dear
Nazaninam is a very tender and affectionate term of endearment. It literally means “my sweet” or “my darling,” and is used to express a gentle and loving fondness for someone. The word suggests a delicate and precious quality in the person being addressed, as if they are a fragile and beautiful treasure. It is commonly used in romantic relationships, but also between parents and children, or between close family members. Nazaninam is a soft, melodic word that conveys a deep sense of care and emotional warmth, making the person feel cherished and protected. It is a word that is spoken with a gentle heart.
Example: “نازنینم، امروز روزت چطور بود؟” → “Nazaninam, emrooz roozet chetor bood?” → “My sweet, how was your day today?”
42. نور
nour (nour)
Closest English: light
Nour literally means “light,” but it is often used poetically as a term of endearment to describe someone who brings light into your life. The word is used to express that the person is a source of happiness, hope, and joy. It is a word that is often used for a beloved child or a partner, as they are seen as a guiding light in a person’s life. It is a word that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic nature of the Persian language.
Example: “تو نور زندگی من هستی.” → “To nour-e zendegi-ye man hasti.” → “You are the light of my life.”
43. نور چشمم
nour-e chashmam (nour-e chash-mam)
Closest English: the light of my eyes
Nour-e chashmam is a beautiful and poetic term of endearment that literally means “the light of my eyes.” This phrase is often used for a beloved child or a grandchild, as they are seen as a source of joy, hope, and light in a person’s life. It can also be used for a partner to show that they are the most important person to you. This phrase implies a love that is so profound it illuminates your life. It shows that the person is not just loved, but is the very source of your happiness and a reason to be.
Example: “پسر عزیزم، نور چشمم.” → “Pesar-e aziz-am, nour-e chashmam.” → “My dear son, the light of my eyes.”
44. عمرم
omram (om-ram)
Closest English: my life, my love
Omram is a word that literally means “my life.” It is a powerful and intimate declaration of love, similar to zendegim. It is used to express that the person is your entire world and that your life would be incomplete without them. This word is often used in romantic relationships and between parents and children to show a deep and profound love. It is a word that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic and heartfelt nature of Persian language.
Example: “تو عمرم هستی.” → “To omram hasti.” → “You are my life.”
45. شریک دل
sharīk-e del (sha-reek-e del)
Closest English: partner of the heart
Sharīk-e del is a poetic way of describing a person who shares not just your life, but your heart. This phrase implies an emotional partnership grounded in empathy, mutual respect, and shared values. It can be used for a romantic partner or a platonic soulmate, but the emphasis is on emotional equity. The phrase suggests that love is not a one-sided feeling, and that both people contribute to the relationship with openness and care. A sharīk-e del is someone who knows the rhythm of your heart and chooses to align theirs with it. This phrase elevates love beyond mere possession into a powerful and mutual co creation.
Example: “تو شریک دل منی و همیشه خواهی بود.” → “To sharīk-e del-e mani va hamishe khāhi bood.” → “You are my partner of the heart and always will be.”
46. شریک زندگی
sharīk-e zendegi (sha-reek-e zen-de-gi)
Closest English: life partner
Sharīk-e zendegi is a formal and very clear way of describing a “life partner.” This phrase literally means “partner of life.” It implies a deep and serious commitment between two people who have chosen to walk through life together. It is a term that is used to describe a spouse or a life-long partner, and it speaks to a bond that is built on a foundation of mutual support, respect, and a shared future. The word is a beautiful expression of a partnership that is not just about love, but about sharing every aspect of life.
Example: “او شریک زندگی من است.” → “Ou sharīk-e zendegi-ye man ast.” → “She is my life partner.”
47. وفا
vafā (va-fā)
Closest English: loyalty, faithfulness
Vafā is a word that describes a feeling of loyalty and faithfulness in a relationship. It is a deeply respected quality in Persian culture, and it is seen as a cornerstone of any strong and lasting bond. Vafā is not just a promise to be loyal, but a deeply felt commitment to stand by someone through thick and thin. It is a word that is often used in poetry and literature to describe a love that is true and unwavering. Vafā is a sign of a love that is both reliable and sincere, and it is a quality that is highly valued in all close relationships.
Example: “وفای تو به من ثابت شد.” → “Vafā-ye to be man sābet shod.” → “Your loyalty to me was proven.”
48. یار
yār (yaar)
Closest English: beloved, companion
Yār is a classic and poetic term for a beloved. It has been used for centuries in songs, poems, and spiritual writings to describe a love built on a foundation of friendship, loyalty, and companionship. To call someone your yār is to place them in a sacred space in your heart as a trusted partner on life’s journey. This word conveys a love that withstands time, hardship, and silence. It suggests a bond that is not possessive, but deeply connected and mutually supportive. Having a yār is about having someone who will walk the path with you, no matter where it leads.
Example: “تو همیشه یار منی.” → “To hamishe yār-e mani.” → “You are always my beloved.”
49. زندگیم
zendegim (zen-de-gim)
Closest English: my life
Zendegim is a powerful and intimate declaration of love. It literally means “my life” and is used to express that the person is your entire world. It implies that the person is a source of happiness, a reason to be, and that your life would be incomplete without them. This word is often used in romantic relationships and between parents and children to show a deep and profound love. It is a word that is spoken with great sincerity and emotional depth, and it is a perfect example of the poetic and heartfelt nature of Persian language.
Example: “تو زندگیم هستی.” → “To zendegim hasti.” → “You are my life.”
50. جان دل
jān-e del (jaa-ne del)
Closest English: soul of my heart
Jān-e del is a powerful and poetic phrase that means “soul of my heart.” It is a way of expressing the full weight of your love and devotion to someone, signifying that they are the very essence of your being. This phrase is used in a moment of deep sincerity, often to a partner or a child, to let them know that your love for them is complete and total. It is not just an emotional love, but a spiritual and physical love that comes from your entire being. This phrase is a beautiful expression for a relationship, as it speaks to a love that is whole and undivided.
Example: “تو جان و دل من هستی.” → “To jān-e del-e man hasti.” → “You are the soul of my heart.”
Persian Pronunciation Guide
This guide is designed to help you with the pronunciation of the Farsi words in this series.
- gh – a throaty sound, like the French ‘r’ (غ / ق)
- kh – a deep “h” sound, like the ‘ch’ in Bach (خ)
- sh – like the ‘sh’ in shine (ش)
- ch – like the ‘ch’ in cheese (چ)
- zh – like the ‘s’ in measure (ژ)
- z – like the ‘z’ in zebra (ز)
- ā – sounds like the ‘a’ in ‘father’
- e – sounds like the ‘e’ in ‘get’
- i – sounds like the ‘i’ in ‘machine’
- o – sounds like the ‘o’ in ‘go’
- u – sounds like the ‘oo’ in ‘moon’
Stressed syllables are shown in bold within the pronunciation.
Italicized words in parentheses reflect how to say the word phonetically.
