k-'-b

Description

The Arabic root كعب (k-'-b) carries the core semantic meaning of something protruding, elevated, or prominent. In the Quran, this root appears in references to al-Ka'bah (the elevated cube-shaped sanctuary in Mecca), ka'ib (referring to young women with firm, rounded breasts), and ka'b (the ankle bone or protruding bone). The semantic thread connects physical protrusion and elevation, linking the architectural prominence of Islam's holiest site with anatomical features that naturally project outward from the body.