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θήκη

A2 noun 8 min read

θήκη

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips θήκη in 30 Seconds

Explanation θήκη in your Level:

At the A1 level, think of 'θήκη' (thíki) as a simple word for 'case' or 'holder.' You will mostly use it for your phone (θήκη κινητού) or your glasses (θήκη γυαλιών). It is a feminine noun, so you say 'η θήκη.' It is a very useful word when you go shopping. For example, if you buy a new phone in Athens, the shop assistant might ask if you need a case. You can simply say 'Θέλω μια θήκη' (I want a case). It's an essential word for basic belongings. You might also see it on signs in stores. Just remember it is like a 'pocket' or 'box' that is made for one specific thing.

At the A2 level, you start to see 'θήκη' in more compound words and daily situations. You will learn that a 'pillowcase' is 'μαξιλαροθήκη' and a 'bookcase' or 'library' is 'βιβλιοθήκη.' You should be able to use it in the genitive case, like 'το χρώμα της θήκης' (the color of the case). You will also use it to describe where you put things away, like 'Βάλε τα γυαλιά στη θήκη τους' (Put the glasses in their case). At this level, you should distinguish between a 'θήκη' (specialized holder) and a 'κουτί' (a general box). You might also hear it used for 'slots' in a wallet or bag.

At the B1 level, you use 'θήκη' in more varied contexts, including hobbies and travel. You might talk about a 'θήκη μεταφοράς' (carrying case) for your laptop or a 'θήκη οργάνου' for a musical instrument. You will notice that 'θήκη' is used for dental crowns as well. If you have a toothache, the dentist might say you need a 'θήκη.' You should also become comfortable with the plural genitive 'των θηκών,' noting the stress change. You can describe materials more specifically, such as 'δερμάτινη θήκη' (leather case) or 'υφασμάτινη θήκη' (fabric case). It becomes a tool for better organization in your descriptions.

At the B2 level, 'θήκη' appears in professional and technical discussions. You will encounter 'προθήκη' for display cases in museums or shop windows. You might read about 'θήκες' in biological texts, referring to sheaths or protective layers of tissues. You should be able to use the word metaphorically or in more complex sentence structures, such as 'Η θήκη προστατεύει το περιεχόμενο από τις φθορές' (The case protects the contents from wear and tear). You will also understand its use in the kitchen for 'μαχαιροθήκες' (cutlery trays) and other household organizational systems. Your vocabulary expands to include synonyms like 'θηκάρι' for weapons.

At the C1 level, you understand the deep etymological roots of 'θήκη' from the verb 'τίθημι' (to place). You can recognize it in complex academic terms like 'οπλοθήκη' (arsenal/armory) or 'γλυπτοθήκη' (sculpture gallery). You understand the nuance between 'θήκη' and 'περίβλημα' (casing/envelope) in engineering or scientific contexts. You can use the word in formal writing to describe the containment of abstract concepts, though this is less common than physical usage. You are also aware of the historical significance of 'θήκες' in archeology, such as reliquaries or specific burial containers. Your usage is precise, distinguishing between various types of protective enclosures.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'θήκη' and all its derivatives. You can use it in literary contexts to describe something being 'encased' or 'ensheathed' in a metaphorical sense. You understand its role in creating specialized terminology across all sciences—from 'εμμίσθια θήκη' in botany to 'μυελινή θήκη' (myelin sheath) in neurology. You can navigate the most technical manuals where 'θήκη' might refer to a socket, a housing, or a specialized compartment in machinery. You also appreciate the word's evolution from Ancient Greek to Modern Greek and how it maintains its core meaning of 'a place for placing' across millennia.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

θήκη in 30 Seconds

A feminine noun meaning case, holder, or sheath.
Used for phones, glasses, musical instruments, and dental crowns.
Forms many common compounds like pillowcase (μαξιλαροθήκη) and library (βιβλιοθήκη).
Distinguished from 'κουτί' (box) by its specialized, protective purpose.

The Greek word θήκη (thíki) is a versatile feminine noun that primarily translates to 'case,' 'holder,' 'cover,' or 'sheath' in English. At its core, it refers to any object designed to contain, protect, or organize another specific item. Whether you are looking for a protective layer for your smartphone, a box for your spectacles, or even a metaphorical container for ideas, θήκη is the word you will encounter most frequently in modern Greek. It originates from the Ancient Greek verb τίθημι (títhēmi), meaning 'to place' or 'to put,' which perfectly encapsulates its function: it is the place where something is put for safekeeping.

Daily Utility: In everyday life, you will use this word when shopping for accessories. If you drop your phone, you need a θήκη κινητού. If you wear glasses, you keep them in a θήκη γυαλιών. It implies a snug fit or a specific purpose, distinguishing it from a generic κουτί (box).

Έχασα τη θήκη των γυαλιών μου στο λεωφορείο.

Translation: I lost my glasses case on the bus.

Beyond simple consumer goods, θήκη extends into specialized fields. In biology, it can refer to a sheath or a capsule protecting an organ or a seed. In music, it is the hard case for a violin or a guitar. In a domestic setting, a μαξιλαροθήκη is a pillowcase. Notice how the word often acts as a suffix in compound words to define exactly what is being held. This linguistic flexibility makes it one of the most productive roots in the Greek language for describing organization and storage.

Materiality: A θήκη can be made of any material: plastic (πλαστική), leather (δερμάτινη), or fabric (υφασμάτινη). The word focuses on the function of containment rather than the material itself.

Αυτή η δερμάτινη θήκη προστατεύει το μαχαίρι.

Translation: This leather sheath protects the knife.

In a historical context, you might hear about a θήκη in a museum referring to a display case or a reliquary. It carries a sense of preservation and presentation. Whether it is a simple plastic cover for a credit card or an ornate gold-plated case for a religious relic, the term remains the same, proving its broad range across different registers of the language.

Using the word θήκη correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical gender (feminine) and its relationship with the objects it contains. Usually, the object being held is placed in the genitive case immediately after 'θήκη'. For example, 'case of the phone' becomes θήκη του κινητού. Alternatively, in many common items, the two words fuse into a compound noun.

Possessive Structure: When you want to specify what the case is for, use the pattern: [Article] + θήκη + [Article in Genitive] + [Noun in Genitive]. Example: Η θήκη της κιθάρας (The case of the guitar).

Πού έβαλες τη θήκη του λάπτοπ;

Translation: Where did you put the laptop sleeve/case?

In plural forms, θήκη becomes θήκες. If you are talking about multiple slots or compartments within a larger bag or organizer, you would also use θήκες. For instance, a backpack might have 'πολλές θήκες' (many compartments/pockets). This is a very common usage in retail and product descriptions.

Compound Nouns: Greek loves combining nouns. Μαξιλάρι (pillow) + θήκη = μαξιλαροθήκη. Βιβλίο (book) + θήκη = βιβλιοθήκη. These are treated as single words with their own declension patterns.

Χρειάζομαι μια νέα θήκη για τα πινέλα μου.

Translation: I need a new case for my brushes.

When using adjectives with θήκη, they must agree in gender, number, and case. Since θήκη is feminine, use feminine endings: προστατευτική θήκη (protective case), σκληρή θήκη (hard case), αδιάβροχη θήκη (waterproof case). These combinations are essential for navigating Greek e-commerce sites or physical stores.

You will hear θήκη in a surprisingly wide array of contexts, from the mundane to the highly technical. In a tech store (like Public or Plaisio in Greece), it is the most common word you'll hear near the smartphone section. Salespeople will ask, 'Θέλετε και μια θήκη για το κινητό σας;' (Do you also want a case for your phone?). It is the standard term for any protective shell for electronics.

Travel and Logistics: At an airport or when packing, you might talk about a θήκη κουστουμιού (suit carrier/bag) or a θήκη εγγράφων (document holder). It implies a specific container that keeps things organized during transit.

Βάλε το διαβατήριο στη θήκη του για να μην τσαλακωθεί.

Translation: Put the passport in its case so it doesn't get creased.

In a medical or dental setting, θήκη has a very specific meaning. If you go to a Greek dentist, a 'crown' for a tooth is called a θήκη. This is because the crown 'encases' the damaged tooth. Similarly, in anatomy, a tendon sheath is referred to as ελυτροειδής θήκη. While a beginner might not need these terms immediately, hearing them helps you realize how 'θήκη' always relates to the concept of covering or surrounding something.

Music and Arts: Musicians never say 'box' for their instruments; it is always θήκη. A 'θήκη βιολιού' (violin case) or 'θήκη μεταφοράς' (carrying case) are standard terms in conservatories and studios.

Η θήκη του οργάνου είναι επενδυμένη με βελούδο.

Translation: The instrument's case is lined with velvet.

Finally, you'll hear it in the kitchen or dining room. A μαχαιροθήκη is a cutlery tray or a knife block. If someone asks you to 'βάλεις τα κουτάλια στη θήκη τους' (put the spoons in their holder), they are referring to the specific slot in the drawer. The word is deeply embedded in the Greek sense of order and categorization.

The most frequent mistake English speakers make is using κουτί (kouti - box) when they should use θήκη. While all cases are containers, not all containers are cases. A κουτί is usually a generic, often rectangular container (like a cardboard box or a shoebox), whereas a θήκη is specifically designed for the object it holds. Using 'κουτί' for a phone case sounds unnatural and slightly childish in Greek.

Confusion with 'Κάλυμμα': Another pitfall is κάλυμμα (kalymma - cover). A κάλυμμα just sits on top of something (like a sofa cover), while a θήκη usually encloses it. For a phone, you can use either, but θήκη is more common for the protective shell.

Λάθος: Το κινητό μου είναι μέσα στο κουτί του. (Meaning: My phone is in its original packaging box, not the protective case you carry it in.)

Another error relates to the genitive plural. Many students forget that the stress moves to the last syllable: των θηκών. If you say 'των θήκων', it is grammatically incorrect. This 'omega' rule for feminine nouns ending in -η is a classic hurdle for learners. Additionally, be careful with the word θηκάρι (thikari), which specifically refers to a scabbard for a sword or a sheath for a large knife; using θήκη is acceptable for these, but θηκάρι is more precise.

Gender Agreement: Because 'θήκη' is feminine, beginners often mistakenly use masculine or neuter articles like 'τον' or 'το'. Always use η, της, τη, οι, των, τις.

Σωστό: Αγόρασα μία καινούργια θήκη. (Correct: I bought one new case - feminine agreement.)

Lastly, remember that θήκη is not used for 'case' in the sense of a 'legal case' or 'medical case' (instance of disease). For a legal case, use υπόθεση (ypothesi). For a medical instance, use περιστατικό (peristatiko). This is a classic 'false friend' trap where the English word 'case' covers multiple Greek words.

While θήκη is the most versatile term, several other Greek words describe containers or covers. Understanding the nuances between them will make your Greek sound more sophisticated and precise. The choice depends on whether the object is a box, a bag, a covering, or a specialized holder.

Κουτί (Kouti) vs. Θήκη: Κουτί: A generic box, often with a lid, used for storage or shipping.
Θήκη: A specific container shaped for a particular object, often for protection or easy access.
Κάλυμμα (Kalymma) vs. Θήκη: Κάλυμμα: A cover that lies over something (like a car cover or a tablecloth).
Θήκη: Usually implies the object goes *inside* the container.

Το μαχαίρι μπαίνει στη θήκη, αλλά το τραπέζι χρειάζεται ένα κάλυμμα.

Translation: The knife goes in the sheath, but the table needs a cover.

For soft containers, you might use τσάντα (bag) or σακούλα (plastic/paper bag). However, if that bag is specifically for a laptop, it's often called a θήκη μεταφοράς (carrying case) rather than just a bag, emphasizing its protective role. In more formal or poetic contexts, you might encounter κολεός (koleos), an ancient word for a sheath, though this is rare in daily speech.

Specialized Terms: 1. Θηκάρι (Thikari): Specifically for knives/swords.
2. Προθήκη (Prothiki): A glass display case in a shop or museum.
3. Επένδυση (Ependysi): An inner lining of a case.

Τα εκθέματα βρίσκονται μέσα σε γυάλινες προθήκες.

Translation: The exhibits are inside glass display cases.

In summary, choose θήκη when the container is 'made-to-measure' for protection or organization. Use κουτί for general storage, κάλυμμα for surface protection, and προθήκη for showing things off. Mastering these distinctions will help you describe your surroundings with the precision of a native Greek speaker.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'θήκη' is the ancestor of many English words via Latin and French, including 'theca' (in biology) and the suffix '-theque' (as in discotheque or library/bibliothèque).

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ˈθici/

US /ˈθiki/

On the first syllable (θή-).

Rhymes With

νίκη (niki - victory) δίκη (diki - trial) φρίκη (friki - horror) νοίκι (noiki - rent) τύχη (tychi - luck - near rhyme) τείχη (teichi - walls - near rhyme) κοίτη (koiti - bed of river - near rhyme) κλίνη (klini - bed - near rhyme)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'th' as 't'.
Stressing the second syllable.
Making the 'k' too hard like an English 'k' in 'kite'.
Mixing the 'i' sound with 'eh'.
Forgetting the stress shift in genitive plural (θηκών).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to recognize, especially in compound words like library.

Writing 3/5

Remembering the stress shift in the genitive plural (θηκών) is tricky.

Speaking 2/5

Simple pronunciation, though 'th' can be hard for some.

Listening 2/5

Very common word, easy to pick out in context.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

κουτί κινητό γυαλιά βιβλίο μαξιλάρι

Learn Next

αποθήκη προθήκη εξώφυλλο κάλυμμα περιτύλιγμα

Advanced

κολεός έλυτρο περίβλημα οπλοθήκη

Grammar to Know

Feminine Nouns in -η

η θήκη, της θήκης, οι θήκες, των θηκών.

Genitive Plural Stress Shift

The stress moves to the 'ων' in 'θηκών'.

Compound Noun Formation

Noun 1 + o + Noun 2 (e.g., μαξιλαροθήκη).

Adjective-Noun Agreement

Η δερμάτινη θήκη (both feminine).

Use of 'για' for Purpose

Θήκη για γυαλιά (Case for glasses).

Examples by Level

Πού είναι η θήκη μου;

Where is my case?

Feminine singular nominative.

Θέλω μια θήκη για το κινητό.

I want a case for the phone.

Accusative case after the verb 'θέλω'.

Η θήκη είναι μπλε.

The case is blue.

Subject-Adjective agreement.

Έχεις θήκη για τα γυαλιά;

Do you have a case for the glasses?

Direct object.

Η θήκη είναι μικρή.

The case is small.

Simple sentence structure.

Αυτή η θήκη είναι φθηνή.

This case is cheap.

Demonstrative pronoun agreement.

Μέσα στη θήκη έχει ένα στυλό.

Inside the case there is a pen.

Prepositional phrase with 'μέσα σε'.

Η θήκη είναι στο τραπέζι.

The case is on the table.

Locative expression.

Η μαξιλαροθήκη είναι καθαρή.

The pillowcase is clean.

Compound word: μαξιλάρι + θήκη.

Χρειάζομαι μια θήκη για το λάπτοπ μου.

I need a case for my laptop.

Genitive 'του λάπτοπ' is implied or 'για' is used.

Οι θήκες των κινητών είναι εδώ.

The phone cases are here.

Plural nominative 'οι θήκες'.

Πόσο κάνει αυτή η θήκη γυαλιών;

How much does this glasses case cost?

Noun-Noun relationship (Genitive).

Βάλε τα κλειδιά στη θήκη της τσάντας.

Put the keys in the bag's compartment.

Using 'θήκη' for a compartment.

Η θήκη προστατεύει το τηλέφωνο.

The case protects the phone.

Subject performing an action.

Δεν βρίσκω τη θήκη του CD.

I can't find the CD case.

Genitive singular 'του CD'.

Αυτή η θήκη είναι δερμάτινη.

This case is leather.

Adjective agreement (feminine).

Ο οδοντίατρος μου έβαλε μια θήκη στο δόντι.

The dentist put a crown on my tooth.

Specialized meaning: dental crown.

Η θήκη της κιθάρας είναι πολύ βαριά.

The guitar case is very heavy.

Genitive relationship.

Υπάρχουν πολλές θήκες για κάρτες στο πορτοφόλι.

There are many card slots in the wallet.

Plural accusative.

Αγόρασα μια αδιάβροχη θήκη για την κάμερα.

I bought a waterproof case for the camera.

Adjective 'αδιάβροχη' (waterproof).

Η θήκη του μαχαιριού είναι φτιαγμένη από ξύλο.

The knife's sheath is made of wood.

Passive construction with 'φτιαγμένη'.

Πρέπει να αλλάξουμε τις μαξιλαροθήκες κάθε εβδομάδα.

We must change the pillowcases every week.

Compound noun in plural.

Η θήκη των ακουστικών είναι πολύ μικρή.

The headphone case is very small.

Genitive plural 'των ακουστικών'.

Μην αφήνεις το όργανο χωρίς τη θήκη του.

Don't leave the instrument without its case.

Preposition 'χωρίς' + accusative.

Το μουσείο έχει σπάνια εκθέματα στις γυάλινες θήκες του.

The museum has rare exhibits in its glass cases.

Plural dative/prepositional use.

Η θήκη του όπλου ήταν άδεια.

The gun's holster was empty.

Context-specific meaning: holster.

Αυτή η θήκη μεταφοράς έχει ειδική επένδυση.

This carrying case has special lining.

Compound-like phrase 'θήκη μεταφοράς'.

Η προστατευτική θήκη απορροφά τους κραδασμούς.

The protective case absorbs shocks.

Formal vocabulary: 'απορροφά', 'κραδασμούς'.

Η θήκη του βιολιού είναι επενδυμένη με κόκκινο βελούδο.

The violin case is lined with red velvet.

Detailed description.

Τοποθέτησε το έγγραφο στην πλαστική θήκη.

Place the document in the plastic sleeve.

Imperative 'Τοποθέτησε'.

Η τιμή περιλαμβάνει και τη θήκη προστασίας.

The price also includes the protection case.

Business context.

Οι θήκες των δοντιών του είναι από πορσελάνη.

His dental crowns are made of porcelain.

Medical context.

Η ανατομική θήκη του τένοντα είχε υποστεί φλεγμονή.

The anatomical sheath of the tendon was inflamed.

Medical terminology.

Η βιβλιοθήκη του πανεπιστημίου είναι μια από τις μεγαλύτερες.

The university library is one of the largest.

Compound word used in a formal context.

Το σπαθί σύρθηκε έξω από τη θήκη του με έναν μεταλλικό ήχο.

The sword was drawn out of its sheath with a metallic sound.

Literary description.

Η προθήκη του καταστήματος ήταν στολισμένη για τα Χριστούγεννα.

The shop's display window was decorated for Christmas.

Use of 'προθήκη' for shop window/case.

Η μυελινή θήκη είναι απαραίτητη για τη μετάδοση των νευρικών ώσεων.

The myelin sheath is essential for the transmission of nerve impulses.

Scientific/Biological terminology.

Η συλλογή φυλάσσεται σε ειδικές θήκες αρχειοθέτησης.

The collection is kept in special archival cases.

Formal/Professional context.

Η θήκη των κοσμημάτων ήταν σκαλισμένη στο χέρι.

The jewelry box/case was hand-carved.

Artistic description.

Κάθε αντικείμενο έχει τη δική του θήκη στην ιστορία.

Every object has its own place (case) in history.

Metaphorical usage.

Η διατήρηση των κειμηλίων απαιτεί θήκες ελεγχόμενης υγρασίας.

Preserving the relics requires controlled-humidity cases.

Technical/Scientific precision.

Η ελυτροειδής θήκη προστατεύει τα ευαίσθητα μέρη του άνθους.

The sheath protects the delicate parts of the flower.

Botanical terminology.

Η οπλοθήκη του κράτους πρέπει να εκσυγχρονιστεί.

The state's arsenal must be modernized.

Political/Military context.

Το εύρημα τοποθετήθηκε σε μια αεροστεγή θήκη για περαιτέρω ανάλυση.

The find was placed in an airtight case for further analysis.

Scientific procedure.

Η πνευματική θήκη μέσα στην οποία αναπτύχθηκε ο πολιτισμός μας...

The intellectual framework (case) within which our civilization developed...

Highly metaphorical/Philosophical.

Η θήκη του θησαυρού ήταν ασφαλισμένη με πολλαπλούς μηχανισμούς.

The treasure chest was secured with multiple mechanisms.

Narrative complexity.

Η ανατομία της θήκης του οφθαλμού είναι εξαιρετικά περίπλοκη.

The anatomy of the eye socket/sheath is extremely complex.

Advanced medical Greek.

Η Πινακοθήκη φιλοξενεί έργα ανυπολόγιστης αξίας.

The Art Gallery (Painting Case) hosts works of inestimable value.

Standard formal name for art galleries.

Synonyms

κάλυμμα θηκάρι κουτί περιβλήμα έλυτρο θήκη (dental) προθήκη θήκη (compartment)

Antonyms

περιεχόμενο γυμνό ύπαιθρο έκθεση

Common Collocations

θήκη κινητού

θήκη γυαλιών

δερμάτινη θήκη

θήκη μεταφοράς

πλαστική θήκη

θήκη δοντιού

σκληρή θήκη

θήκη μαχαιριού

θήκη μαξιλαριού

θήκη εγγράφων

Common Phrases

Βάζω στη θήκη

— To put something in its case. Used for storage.

Βάλε το βιολί στη θήκη του.

Βγάζω από τη θήκη

— To take something out of its case. Used when starting to use something.

Έβγαλε το κινητό από τη θήκη.

Προστατευτική θήκη

— Protective case. Very common in tech.

Αγοράστε μια προστατευτική θήκη σήμερα.

Θήκη για κάρτες

— Card holder. Found in wallets or as standalone items.

Έχει μια μικρή θήκη για κάρτες.

Θήκη πρώτων βοηθειών

— First aid kit/case. Standard safety item.

Πού είναι η θήκη πρώτων βοηθειών;

Θήκη αποθήκευσης

— Storage case. General term for organizers.

Χρησιμοποιούμε θήκες αποθήκευσης για τα ρούχα.

Γυάλινη προθήκη

— Glass display case. Used in museums/shops.

Το βάζο είναι στη γυάλινη προθήκη.

Θήκη για πινέλα

— Brush holder. Used by artists or makeup users.

Η θήκη για τα πινέλα είναι γεμάτη.

Θήκη για CD

— CD case. Though less common now, still used.

Η θήκη του CD έσπασε.

Θήκη κλειδιών

— Key holder/case. Small pouch for keys.

Έχει μια δερμάτινη θήκη κλειδιών.

Often Confused With

θήκη vs κουτί

Kouti is a general box; thiki is a specialized case.

θήκη vs κάλυμμα

Kalymma is a cover; thiki usually encloses the object.

θήκη vs υπόθεση

Ypothesi is a legal/abstract case; thiki is only a physical case.

Idioms & Expressions

"Στη θήκη του"

— Literal: In its case. Figurative: In its proper place or dormant.

Το σπαθί έμεινε στη θήκη του (The conflict was avoided).

literary

"Βάζω το σπαθί στη θήκη"

— To stop fighting or to make peace.

Ήρθε η ώρα να βάλουμε το σπαθί στη θήκη.

figurative

"Σαν τη θήκη με το μαχαίρι"

— Used to describe two things that fit perfectly together.

Αυτοί οι δύο ταιριάζουν σαν τη θήκη με το μαχαίρι.

informal

"Μαξιλαροθήκη των ονείρων"

— Poetic way to refer to sleep or rest.

Ακούμπησε το κεφάλι στη μαξιλαροθήκη των ονείρων.

poetic

"Βιβλιοθήκη γνώσεων"

— Someone who is very knowledgeable (a walking library).

Ο παππούς είναι μια ζωντανή βιβλιοθήκη γνώσεων.

metaphorical

"Στην προθήκη"

— To be on display or under scrutiny.

Η ζωή του είναι πάντα στην προθήκη.

metaphorical

"Κλεισμένος στη θήκη του"

— Someone who is introverted or unsocial.

Είναι κλεισμένος στη θήκη του και δεν μιλάει.

informal

"Θήκη αναμνήσεων"

— A place (physical or mental) where memories are kept.

Αυτό το κουτί είναι η θήκη των αναμνήσεών μου.

poetic

"Βγάζω τα νύχια από τη θήκη"

— To prepare to attack or defend oneself fiercely.

Όταν την προκάλεσαν, έβγαλε τα νύχια από τη θήκη.

idiomatic

"Οπλοθήκη επιχειρημάτων"

— A set of arguments ready for use.

Έχει μια ολόκληρη οπλοθήκη επιχειρημάτων.

formal

Easily Confused

θήκη vs θήκη vs κουτί

Both mean container.

Thiki is designed for a specific item (e.g., phone case), while kouti is generic (e.g., shoebox).

Η θήκη του κινητού vs Το κουτί των παπουτσιών.

θήκη vs θήκη vs κάλυμμα

Both protect objects.

Kalymma is a surface cover (tablecloth), thiki is an enclosure (pillowcase).

Το κάλυμμα του καναπέ vs Η μαξιλαροθήκη.

θήκη vs θήκη vs τσάντα

Both carry things.

Tsanta is a bag with handles; thiki is a snug sleeve or holder.

Η σχολική τσάντα vs Η θήκη του λάπτοπ.

θήκη vs θήκη vs φάκελος

Both hold documents.

Fakelos is an envelope or folder; thiki is a more durable holder/sleeve.

Ο φάκελος της αλληλογραφίας vs Η θήκη εγγράφων.

θήκη vs θήκη vs θηκάρι

Very similar sounds.

Thikari is exclusively for blades (swords/knives); thiki is general.

Το σπαθί στο θηκάρι vs Το κινητό στη θήκη.

Sentence Patterns

Πού είναι η θήκη;

Πού είναι η θήκη του κινητού;

Χρειάζομαι μια [Adjective] θήκη.

Χρειάζομαι μια καινούργια θήκη.

Η θήκη είναι φτιαγμένη από [Material].

Η θήκη είναι φτιαγμένη από δέρμα.

Το [Object] προστατεύεται από τη θήκη.

Το βιολί προστατεύεται από τη σκληρή θήκη.

Η [Specialized] θήκη παρουσιάζει [Condition].

Η μυελινή θήκη παρουσιάζει αλλοιώσεις.

Εντός της [Adjective] προθήκης...

Εντός της αεροστεγούς προθήκης φυλάσσεται ο πάπυρος.

Βάλε το [Object] στη θήκη του.

Βάλε το μαχαίρι στη θήκη του.

Έχει πολλές θήκες για [Noun].

Έχει πολλές θήκες για κάρτες.

Word Family

Nouns

βιβλιοθήκη (library)

μαξιλαροθήκη (pillowcase)

πινακοθήκη (art gallery)

δισκοθήκη (record collection/disco)

θηκάρι (sheath)

προθήκη (display case)

οπλοθήκη (armory)

γλυπτοθήκη (sculpture gallery)

Verbs

αποθηκάρω (to store - rare, usually αποθηκεύω)

αποθηκεύω (to store/warehouse)

ενθηκώνω (to ensheathe - rare/technical)

Adjectives

αποθηκευτικός (storage-related)

θηκοειδής (sheath-like)

αποθήκη (warehouse/storage room)

θήκη (dental crown)

κασετίνα (pencil case)

θήτω (ancient root)

τίθημι (ancient root)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life and technology.

Common Mistakes

Using 'τον θήκη' → τη θήκη
'Θήκη' is feminine, so it must take the feminine article 'τη' in the accusative, not the masculine 'τον'.
Saying 'των θήκων' → των θηκών
The genitive plural of feminine nouns in -η always stresses the final syllable -ών.
Using 'θήκη' for a legal case → υπόθεση
'Θήκη' is for physical objects. For abstract or legal cases, use 'υπόθεση'.
Confusing 'θήκη' with 'κουτί' for a gift box → κουτί
A gift box is a 'κουτί'. A 'θήκη' is a functional holder for an item you already own.
Using 'θήκη' for a suitcase → βαλίτσα
A suitcase is 'βαλίτσα'. 'Θήκη' is for smaller, more specific items inside the suitcase.

Tips

Genitive Plural

Always remember that feminine nouns in -η like 'θήκη' shift their stress to the last syllable in the genitive plural: των θηκών. This is a very common test question for Greek learners!

Shopping

When shopping for phone accessories, look for the word 'θήκη'. You will see it on every website and in every store. It is one of the most practical words to know.

Dental Visits

If a Greek dentist says you need a 'θήκη', don't look for a box! He means a dental crown. This is a very specific but common use of the word.

Compound Words

Many Greek buildings and collections end in -θήκη. Learning this word helps you understand 'βιβλιοθήκη' (library), 'πινακοθήκη' (art gallery), and 'γλυπτοθήκη' (sculpture gallery) instantly.

Sword Sheaths

While 'θήκη' works for a sword sheath, using the word 'θηκάρι' (thikari) makes you sound much more advanced and precise in your Greek.

Adjective Order

When describing a case, put the material first: 'δερμάτινη θήκη' (leather case). This is the most natural word order.

Bag Compartments

If you are describing a backpack, use the plural 'θήκες' to refer to the various compartments and pockets. 'Έχει πολλές θήκες' means 'It has many pockets'.

The 'Theca' Connection

Think of the biological term 'theca'. It comes directly from 'θήκη'. If you know science, you already know this word!

Double 'i' sounds

Both vowels in θήκη (η and η) are pronounced 'ee'. It's a very 'i-heavy' word: Th-ee-k-ee.

Museum Etiquette

In Greek museums, you will see 'Μην ακουμπάτε τις προθήκες' (Do not touch the display cases). Knowing 'θήκη' helps you follow the rules!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'The Case' (Thi-Ki). It sounds like 'Thick-y' - a thick case protects your phone.

Visual Association

Imagine a phone wearing a tiny Greek helmet as a 'θήκη' for protection.

Word Web

θήκη κινητό γυαλιά προστασία θήκη δοντιού μαξιλαροθήκη βιβλιοθήκη θήκη οργάνου

Challenge

Try to find 5 items in your room that need a 'θήκη' and name them in Greek (e.g., θήκη λάπτοπ, θήκη πένας).

Word Origin

From Ancient Greek θήκη (thḗkē), which means a 'receptacle,' 'box,' or 'chest.' It is derived from the verb τίθημι (títhēmi), meaning 'to put' or 'to place.'

Original meaning: A place where things are put or stored.

Indo-European (Hellenic branch).

Cultural Context

No specific sensitivities; the word is neutral.

English speakers often use 'case' for legal or medical situations, but Greeks use different words for those. 'Θήκη' is almost always a physical object.

Εθνική Πινακοθήκη (National Art Gallery of Greece) Βιβλιοθήκη του Αδριανού (Library of Hadrian in Athens) The term 'Discotheque' (from δισκοθήκη).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Tech Store

Έχετε θήκη για αυτό το μοντέλο;
Είναι ανθεκτική αυτή η θήκη;
Θέλω μια διάφανη θήκη.
Πόσο κάνει η θήκη σιλικόνης;

At Home

Άλλαξε τις μαξιλαροθήκες.
Πού είναι η θήκη των γυαλιών μου;
Βάλε τα μαχαίρια στη μαχαιροθήκη.
Η βιβλιοθήκη είναι γεμάτη σκόνη.

Music School

Μην ξεχνάς τη θήκη της κιθάρας.
Η θήκη του βιολιού είναι ανοιχτή.
Είναι σκληρή η θήκη του οργάνου;
Βάλε τις νότες στη θήκη.

Dentist

Πρέπει να βάλουμε θήκη στο δόντι.
Η θήκη ξεκόλλησε.
Τι χρώμα θα είναι η θήκη;
Πονάει το δόντι κάτω από τη θήκη.

Museum

Μην ακουμπάτε τις προθήκες.
Τα νομίσματα είναι στην τρίτη θήκη.
Η προθήκη είναι φωτισμένη.
Τι γράφει η πινακίδα στη θήκη;

Conversation Starters

"Τι χρώμα θήκη προτιμάς για το κινητό σου;"

"Έχεις πολλές θήκες στην τσάντα σου για να οργανώνεις τα πράγματά σου;"

"Πόσο συχνά αλλάζεις μαξιλαροθήκες στο σπίτι σου;"

"Πιστεύεις ότι μια ακριβή θήκη προστατεύει καλύτερα το λάπτοπ;"

"Έχεις ποτέ χάσει τη θήκη των γυαλιών σου σε δημόσιο χώρο;"

Journal Prompts

Περίγραψε την αγαπημένη σου θήκη (για κινητό, όργανο ή άλλο) και γιατί σου αρέσει.

Γράψε για μια φορά που μια θήκη έσωσε μια συσκευή σου από σπάσιμο.

Πώς οργανώνεις τα βιβλία στη βιβλιοθήκη σου; Έχεις κάποιο σύστημα;

Αν έπρεπε να σχεδιάσεις μια θήκη για ένα πολύ περίεργο αντικείμενο, τι θα ήταν αυτό;

Ποια είναι η γνώμη σου για τις γυάλινες προθήκες στα μουσεία; Βοηθούν ή εμποδίζουν την εμπειρία;

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, for a legal case you should use the word 'υπόθεση' (ypothesi). 'Θήκη' is strictly for physical containers or specialized medical/biological contexts.

The plural is 'θήκες' (thikes) in the nominative and 'θηκών' (thikon) in the genitive. Note the stress shift to the last syllable in the genitive plural.

Yes! 'Βιβλιοθήκη' is a compound of 'βιβλίο' (book) and 'θήκη' (case/holder), literally meaning 'book-case' or library.

You say 'θήκη κινητού' (thiki kinitou) or 'θήκη για το κινητό'.

It is feminine: η θήκη.

In a dental context, 'θήκη' refers to a crown that is placed over a tooth to protect it.

Sometimes, if referring to a specific slot or compartment in a bag, but the usual word for pocket is 'τσέπη' (tsepi).

It is a pillowcase. It combines 'μαξιλάρι' (pillow) and 'θήκη' (case).

It is pronounced like the 'th' in the English word 'thin' or 'thought'.

For the tower/chassis of a PC, Greeks often use 'κουτί' (box) or 'πύργος' (tower), but 'θήκη' can be used for a laptop sleeve.