A camel, a large animal known for its humped back, used for transport in desert regions.

Origin: The word 'جمل' (jamal) originates from Proto-Semitic *gamal, which referred to the camel. In Arabic, it retained a similar phonetic structure and meaning. Historical and Cultural Context: Camels have been integral to Arabic-speaking cultures, especially for trade across deserts. The word 'جمل' was first attested in pre-Islamic poetry, emphasizing the camel's importance in daily life and travel. Evolution: Over time, the word has remained phonetically stable in Arabic. Cognates include 'גמל' (gamal) in Hebrew and 'جمل' (jamal) in Aramaic, all pointing to the animal's significance in Semitic cultures. Modern Relevance: Today, 'جمل' is used in Arabic to describe camels in both literal and metaphorical contexts, such as in idioms or to describe resilience and endurance.

Camels can drink up to 40 gallons of water in one go, and the word 'جمل' is related to the Arabic verb 'to bear' or 'to endure', reflecting the camel's ability to endure long journeys in harsh conditions.