I love words, and I enjoy learning new worlds from around the world. Sometimes they express feelings or describe a situation we don’t have a word for in English.
Words can tell you a lot about what different cultures find important.
To start 2024 off right, I’ve selected ten feel-good words from around the world. These are words we all should remember and embrace.
Ayáπn – n. (Greek) The highest form of love. Selfless, sacrificial, and unconditional love. Love that transcends and persists in any circumstance. Agape love.
Geborgenheit – n. (German origin) The perfect mixing of cozy, safe, warm, and comfortable.
Gezellig – adj. (Dutch) A feeling of comfort, warmth, and relaxation. Pleasant togetherness, a friendly ambiance, and cozy atmosphere.
Kaizen – n. The philosophy of continuous improvement; becoming one percent better each day. Kaizen is a combination of two Japanese words, Kai, and Zen, – change for good.
Kefi – n. (Greek) The spirit of joy, enthusiasm, high spirits, and frenzy. Good times and a passion for life being expressed with an abundance of fun, happiness, and excitement.
Koselig – adj. (A Norwegian word) A feeling of deep contentment , provided by a person, place, or atmosphere. Experiencing personal well-being and happiness through a combination of companionship, coziness, and nature.
Livsnjutare – n. (A Swedish word) An enjoyer of life who loves life deeply and lives it to the extreme.
Macnas – n. (Irish origin) Joyful abandonment. The act of playing without a care in the world.
Natsukashii – derived from the verb “natsuku” which means to keep close and become fond of is a Japanese word meaning when something evokes a happy memory from the past.
Naz- n. – the pride that comes from knowing you are loved unconditionally. Naz is also a first name in several different languages. It can mean grace in Kurdish. In Nigeria it means star. In other languages it can mean an affectation, bashfulness, pride, or gift from God.