How Do You Spell BANIAN?

Pronunciation: [bˈe͡ɪni͡ən] (IPA)

The word "banian" is a bit tricky to spell, as the pronunciation doesn't match up exactly with the letters used. The IPA phonetic transcription for "banian" is /bæniən/. The "a" sound is pronounced as "æ" like in "cat", the "n" sound is obvious, and the "i" sounds like "ee". The tricky part is the final syllable, which combines the "ə" sound, called a schwa, with an "n" sound. So, despite the unusual spelling, "banian" is pronounced "BAN-ee-un".

BANIAN Meaning and Definition

1. Banian is a noun with multiple definitions, referring to different cultural concepts. Firstly, in British English, it is used to describe a lightweight, usually white, collarless shirt commonly worn in South Asia, particularly in India and Bangladesh. This shirt, originating from the Portuguese word "baniyan," is typically made of cotton and features a buttoned or tied front. In this context, it is often considered a traditional garment, familiar in both formal and casual attire.

   Secondly, the term "banian" can also refer to a merchant or trader originating from the Indian subcontinent, specifically Gujarat. Historically, it denoted an individual engaged in mercantile activities in Southeast Asia, especially during the colonial era when Indian merchants played a significant role in fostering trade relations between their homeland and various regions.

   Additionally, "banian" can also be used to describe the long-lived and sacred Ficus benghalensis tree, commonly known as the banyan tree. This tropical fig tree, native to the Indian subcontinent, displays a unique growth habit where its branches extend aerial roots that eventually grow into additional trunks, creating a complex and expansive canopy. Due to its majestic appearance and cultural significance, the banyan tree is highly regarded in various mythologies and religious contexts, including Hinduism and Buddhism.

   In summary, "banian" refers to a type of shirt worn in South Asia, a merchant from the Indian subcontinent, and a species of tree found primarily in the Indian subcontinent.

2. • Among seamen, applied to those days on which they receive no butchers meat.

   • The Indian fig-tree; a Hindoo of the trading caste.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for BANIAN

• vanian
• nanian
• hanian
• ganian
• bznian
• bsnian
• bwnian
• bqnian
• babian
• bamian
• bajian
• bahian
• banuan
• banjan
• banoan
• ban9an
• ban8an
• bqanian
• janian
• fanian

Etymology of BANIAN

The word "banian" has an interesting etymology. It derives from the Persian word "بنیان" (pronounced "banyan"), meaning "merchant" or "trader". The Persian term "بنیان" was used to refer to a community of Hindu merchants in India during the Mughal era.

In India, the British encountered a style of long, loose-fitting garment worn by these Hindu merchants, typically produced from a specific type of cloth known as "bandhana" or "bandhni". This garment eventually became associated with their community and lifestyle. The English, not being familiar with the Persian term "بنیان", started referring to this garment as a "banian", pronouncing it differently from the Persian root.

Over time, the term "banian" extended its meaning to include any lightweight, loose-fitting undershirt often worn by men.

Similar spelling words for BANIAN

• banana,
• banyan,
• bahamian,
• bannan,
• baumann,
• Bauman,
• bannon.

Plural form of BANIAN is BANIANS