Living Chic

A Quick Moroccan Primer

Djellabah: A big kaftan for men in cotton or silk; they are often beautifully embroidered.

Fez: The traditional Arab dressy hat, red and cylindrical with a black ­tassel.

Henna: A paste made from the dried leaves of the Egyptian privet, used to decorate brides’ hands and feet with beautiful, intricate designs ("temporary tattoos"); also for hair conditioning and coloring.

Kesra: An anise­-­scented bread used to scoop up food from a communal ­dish.

Marhaba: ­"Welcome."

Medina: The old city ­center.

Mezze: Multiple bowls of appetizers.

Rashasha: A dispenser or sprinkler for perfumed waters with a bulbous shape and long stem.

Souk: The central marketplace or bazaar, a maze of buildings and small partially covered streets that are arranged in a surprisingly consistent and carefully planned manner throughout the Arab ­world.

Touma: ­Garlic.

Ward: Rosewater.

Zaater: ­Oregano.

Zahar: Orange­-­blossom ­water.