alati

Alati is a term used in several South Slavic languages as the plural form of alat, meaning tool or instrument. In Croatian, Bosnian and Serbian, alat denotes a tool, and alati is used to refer collectively to tools or implements. The word appears in everyday speech and is common in discussions of crafts, construction, and mechanical work. Examples include phrases such as ovo su alati (these are tools) and potrebni su ti alati za popravak (you need tools for the repair).

Etymology and linguistic notes: alat is the singular form and alat i is the plural; the plural is formed by adding the suffix -i. The origin of alat is generally considered to be inside the Slavic family, with cognates appearing across related languages. In some linguistic references, the root is linked to ancient terms for instruments or implements and shows long-standing use in practical domains such as carpentry, metalwork, and farming.

Other uses and variants: outside of standard language use, alati can appear as a surname or toponym in some regions, reflecting historical associations with tool-making, crafts, or occupational names. In broader contexts, the term does not denote a concept beyond its literal meaning of tools, though it can appear in literary or cultural descriptions where tools and instruments are central motifs.

In summary, alati primarily denotes tools in several South Slavic languages, with its meaning grounded in everyday practical use and occasional discretionary appearances as a surname or place name.