nirra

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Maltese[edit]

Alternative forms[edit]

Etymology[edit]

According to Aquilina, it is a contraction of min +‎ ra, literally someone sees (nirrak < mirrak < min rak). Compare the common expression min rak mgħallaq (May you be hanged, literally someone sees you hanged).

Pronunciation[edit]

Interjection[edit]

nirra

  1. an interjection used for:
    1. ill-wishing [+pronominal pronoun]
      Nirrah jaqa’.May he fall.
    2. good wishes [+pronominal pronoun or without]
      Nirra Alla jsewwi(please add an English translation of this usage example)