známi

známi is a Czech and Slovak word that translates to "known" or "famous" in English. It is the plural form of the adjective známy. The feminine singular form is známa, the masculine singular form is známy, and the neuter singular form is známe.

The word is commonly used to describe individuals, places, or things that have gained recognition or notoriety. For example, a well-known celebrity might be referred to as "známa osobnosť" (famous personality) in Slovak or "známá osobnost" in Czech. Similarly, a popular tourist destination could be described as "známe miesto" (known place).

In a more general sense, známi can also refer to acquaintances or people one knows. For instance, "Stretol som tam svojich známych" translates to "I met my acquaintances there." The context of the sentence is crucial in determining whether the word refers to fame or familiarity.

The etymology of the word can be traced back to the Proto-Slavic root *znati, meaning "to know." This root is shared with many other Slavic languages, highlighting a common linguistic heritage. The adjective form has evolved over time, incorporating grammatical endings that denote gender, number, and case.

The concept of being "známi" can encompass various degrees of recognition, from local popularity to international renown. It is a versatile term that plays a significant role in everyday communication in both the Czech Republic and Slovakia, contributing to the richness and expressiveness of these languages.