In honor of Hebrew Language Day, Israel’s Academy of the Hebrew Language has conducted its “Word of the Year” survey, with the Hebrew word habayta (“homeward”) coming out on top, the Academy announced on Thursday.
Hundreds of suggestions were submitted in advance, from which 10 words were selected to compete for the title, according to the Academy.
Thousands voted on the Academy’s website, choosing “Homeward” as the most deserving Hebrew word of the year.
The word “symbolizes for many the return of most of the hostages to their homes—after two harrowing years of pain and waiting,” wrote the Academy.
“Throughout this period, the word surfaced repeatedly in public discourse and even stirred hearts in a song that became one of the symbols of the struggle and the hope,” it continued. It also “represents the return—and the aspiration to return—to the communities of the Gaza border region and to the northern communities,” according to the statement.
“Artificial intelligence” (bina melachutit) came in second place, followed by “hope” (tikvah).
In addition, Israel’s official X account celebrated the resurrection of the ancient Hebrew language in the modern State of Israel.
“From study halls to streets, from history to the present, a language brought back to usage, inspired by the vision of Eliezer ben Yehuda. Happy Hebrew Day!”
Hebrew’s rejuvenation is unprecedented! Sourced from ancient texts, Hebrew is again a language, used by millions.
— Israel ישראל (@Israel) January 8, 2026
From study halls to streets, from history to the present, a language brought back to usage, inspired by the vision of Eliezer ben Yehuda.
Happy Hebrew Day! 📖 pic.twitter.com/jXAnHhUZbq
Ben-Yehuda was a linguist who emigrated from Russia to Jerusalem in 1881. Renowned as the lexicographer of the first Hebrew dictionary and editor of one of the first Hebrew newspapers in Israel, he was the primary driving force behind the revival of the biblical language.
