souk

noun

ˈsük How to pronounce souk (audio)
variants or less commonly suq
: a marketplace in northern Africa or the Middle East
also : a stall in such a marketplace

Examples of souk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Markets, Clothing, and Craft Traditions Adapt Without Disappearing One of the best illustrations of the coexistence of past traditions and modern needs is Egypt’s souks. — Kaitlyn Gomez, Charlotte Observer, 17 Aug. 2026 In Marrakesh, travelers can wander through the side streets of the souk, visiting pottery workshops, metalworkers, carpet makers and leather dyers. — Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026 Seven rooms in a traditional riad in the heart of the souks, a twisty three-minute stroll to the western side of Djemaa el Fna Square. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 June 2026 Ayyoub Bouaddi slinked through their midfield with all the nonchalance of a cat in a souk. — James Horncastle, New York Times, 14 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for souk

Word History

Etymology

Arabic sūq market

First Known Use

1826, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of souk was in 1826

Rhymes for souk

See All Rhymes for souk

Browse Nearby Words

sought-after
souk
soukous
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Souk.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/souk. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on souk

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about souk

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