The Persian word meaning “seven” in the name of the Nowruz table is Haft. “Haft-sin” literally means “seven S’s,” combining haft, meaning seven, with sin, the Persian letter س (pronounced “seen”).
The table is a traditional Nowruz display arranged with seven symbolic items whose Persian names begin with sin. Common examples include sabzeh (sprouts), samanu (wheat-germ pudding), senjed (oleaster), serkeh (vinegar), seeb (apple), seer (garlic), and somagh (sumac).
Haft-sin is associated with renewal, spring, fertility, health, and prosperity. Nowruz begins at the spring equinox, so the table’s greenery and other objects reflect hopes for a fruitful new year. Mirrors, candles, painted eggs, goldfish, and a book of wisdom may accompany the seven principal items.
A common mix-up is “Haft-shin,” a proposed older form connected with objects beginning with the Persian letter ش. Although that history is debated, the standard modern name and quiz answer are Haft-sin, with Haft meaning seven.