Pronunciation: [dˈiːhˈʌl] (IPA) 
The word "dhul" is spelled with the combination of two consonants in the Arabic language. The first consonant is "d" which is pronounced as [d], and the second consonant is "h" which is pronounced with a voiceless glottal fricative sound [h]. To write the word "dhul" using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA), it would appear as /d̪ʱul/. This word is commonly used in Islamic literature, where it means "dust" or "earth".
"Dhul" is a term that primarily finds its roots in the Arabic language. Its dictionary definition describes it as a noun referring to a dark or blackish color characterized by its shade of gray or brown. It can also be interpreted as a descriptive adjective that relates to objects, substances, or materials possessing this dark appearance.
In some contexts, "dhul" can be used metaphorically to convey a sense of gloominess, obscurity, or darkness in a non-literal manner. It may symbolize melancholy, sadness, or negativity, reflecting the emotions associated with the color black and its symbolic connotations. This metaphoric usage allows for a broader application of "dhul" beyond its literal interpretation.
Moreover, "dhul" can also be employed in reference to specific particles or substances such as dust, smoke, or any other fine particles that are light enough to be suspended in the air. This usage is prevalent within Arabic-speaking regions where desert landscapes or dusty environments are common.
Additionally, "dhul" can be related to specific religious or cultural contexts, notably in Islamic traditions, where it refers to a state of spiritual impurity or pollution that requires purification or cleansing rituals.
Overall, "dhul" encompasses a range of meanings encompassing color, metaphorical representations of darkness, particles, and cultural symbolism, depending on the specific context in which it is used.
The term "dhul" has multiple meanings in different contexts and languages. Here are the etymologies for two different senses of the word:
1. In Arabic:
The word "dhul" (ذُل) in Arabic is derived from the root ذلّ (dh-l-l), which conveys the concept of humiliation or abasement. This root gives rise to various related words with similar meanings. In Arabic, "dhul" can be used as both a noun and an adjective to signify degradation or disgrace.
2. In Amharic:
In Amharic, one of the major languages spoken in Ethiopia, "dhul" refers to a specific type of Ethiopian traditional dwelling or hut. The etymology for this term is not clear, as Amharic is an Afro-Asiatic language with its own linguistic history.
