H1573 גֹּמֶא gômeʼ Derivative

3 languages

Derivative of root גמא — canonical: H1572 גָּמָא (2 family members).

A type of marsh plant common in Nile regions, typically identified as papyrus (Cyperus papyrus), but may include other similar aquatic reed-like grasses. In biblical usage, refers to tall, absorbent, spongy-stemmed plants that grow in wet, marshy ground. Its semantic range includes papyrus, reed, bulrush, and marsh vegetation.

Etymology From the root גמא, meaning 'to swallow, absorb, drink in.' The noun גֹּמֶא derives from this root, indicating a plant that soaks up or absorbs water, hence a marsh plant such as the papyrus or bulrush.
Language Word Meaning Segmentation Root
Kikongo ngoma reed-like plant material gom
Kimbundu ngoma reed, spikes used in traditional crafts -ŋgoma
Lingala ngoma reed-like plant (usually papyrus or plant used for mats) -ŋgoma