Quranic root
كهل
k · h · l
The root conveys strength or an integrated, fully formed constitution.
This orientation extends to the mature human stage, the strong upper back at the neck and shoulders, and—by analogy—to vegetation reaching full growth and flowering.
- Maqāyīs · row 4057
- 1
- Quran-attested forms
- 1
- Quran senses
- 2
- Quran occurrences
Forms in the Quran
The forms this root actually takes in the Quran. Select one to jump to its senses and examples.
كَهْل
kahl
- Part of speech
- Noun
- Quran occurrences
- 2 occurrences
Selected examples are shown with the sense they illustrate — chosen to teach that sense, not the complete list of this form’s Quran occurrences.
A person in mature middle age, with the onset or presence of gray hair.
In the Quran, used in the life-stage expression contrasting infancy with being a كَهْل, referring to mature adulthood.
- Lane · entry 32979
- Mufradāt · row 1274
Selected Quran examples
Quran 3:46word 5
“and (in) maturity”
Quran 5:110word 20
“and (in) maturity”
Occurrences in the Quran
Every place this root appears, in Quran order. The first few are shown here.
View all 2 occurrencesBroader Classical Arabic meanings
Recorded for this root in the Classical lexicons beyond its Quran usage. These are secondary to the Quran senses above.
Show 3 Classical meanings
اِكْتَهَلَ
Of vegetation, to become tall and full-grown, attain its full height, and flower; at mature growth, to approach drying.
A Form VIII verb said of plants or vegetation; the reported nuances describe the plant's advanced maturity.
- Lane · entry 32978
- Mufradāt · row 1274
كَاهِلٌ
The withers: the upper back at the junction of the neck and shoulders, including the region between the shoulder blades.
An anatomical term used especially of a horse or similar animal; it may refer to the upper portion of the back or the base of the neck.
- Lane · entry 32981
كِهَانَةٌ
Divination or soothsaying.
A noun for the practice of divination.
- Lane · entry 32982