Have you ever experienced something so specific, so oddly relatable, that you were left speechless—not because you couldn’t describe it, but because English doesn’t have a word for it?
You’re not alone. Around the world, different cultures have invented unique words to capture feelings, moments, and experiences that English speakers understand—but can't quite name. These linguistic gems don’t always translate neatly, but they tap into something universal.
Here are 10 brilliant words from other languages that don’t exist in English—but absolutely should.
1. Fernweh (German)
Definition: A longing for distant places; the desire to travel.
Think of it as the opposite of homesickness—a craving not for home, but for anywhere but here.
2. Tsundoku (Japanese)
Definition: The act of buying books and letting them pile up unread.
Every book lover’s guilty pleasure has a name—and it’s oddly comforting to know it’s a recognized phenomenon.
3. Gigil (Tagalog, Philippines)
Definition: The overwhelming urge to squeeze or pinch something because it’s just too cute.
That feeling when you see a chubby baby or a fluffy puppy? That’s gigil.
4. Sobremesa (Spanish)
Definition: The time spent lingering at the table after a meal, chatting and enjoying each other’s company.
It’s not just eating—it’s bonding. A word that invites us to slow down and savor connection.
5. Kilig (Tagalog, Philippines)
Definition: The fluttery, excited feeling you get when something romantic or cute happens.
That blushy, heart-skipping moment when your crush texts you back? Pure kilig.
6. Lagom (Swedish)
Definition: Not too little, not too much—just right.
It’s about balance, moderation, and contentment. A lifestyle word that feels like a deep exhale.
7. Jayus (Indonesian)
Definition: A joke so bad or poorly told that you can’t help but laugh.
The groan-worthy dad joke’s international cousin—jayus is awkward comedy gold.
8. Saudade (Portuguese)
Definition: A deep emotional state of nostalgic or melancholic longing for someone or something absent.
There’s no perfect translation—just the ache of missing a piece of your past or your heart.
9. Hygge (Danish)
Definition: A cozy, warm feeling of comfort, contentment, and well-being.
Think candles, blankets, hot drinks, and being surrounded by people you love. Hygge is the vibe we all need.
10. Iktsuarpok (Inuit)
Definition: The feeling of anticipation that leads you to keep checking if someone is coming.
That moment when you're waiting for a guest and keep glancing out the window? That’s iktsuarpok.
Why These Words Matter
These words offer more than just novelty—they give us new lenses through which to view the world. They remind us that emotions, habits, and experiences don’t always fit neatly into the language we use. Sometimes, it takes another culture to help us name what we feel.
Maybe we’ll borrow these words someday—or maybe they’ll inspire entirely new ones.
In the meantime, next time you feel a strong case of fernweh or gigil, just smile and know: there’s a word for that.
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