CHAGHATAI Meaning and
Definition
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Chaghatai (pronounced chuh-guh-tie) refers to a Central Asian dialect, literature, or culture associated with the Chaghatai Khanate, a Mongol empire that emerged in the 13th century.
The term "Chaghatai" can be used to describe the language spoken in this empire, which was a variant of the Turkic language. It evolved from the Old Turkic language and was influenced by Persian and Arabic. Chaghatai became the official language of the court and administration within the Khanate, particularly during the reign of Chaghatai Khan, who was the second son of Genghis Khan. The language continued to be used for centuries and had a significant impact on Central Asian literature.
Furthermore, "Chaghatai" can also refer to the literary tradition that emerged during the rule of the Chaghatai Khanate. This tradition encompasses various forms of poetry, prose, and historical works that were written in the Chaghatai language. Notable works include "Diwan-i-Hafiz," a collection of poems attributed to the Persian poet Hafiz and translated into Chaghatai, and the "Chaghatai Khanate Chronicles," which document the history of the Chaghatai Khanate.
Overall, "Chaghatai" refers to both a language and a cultural tradition associated with the Chaghatai Khanate, highlighting its linguistic, literary, and historical significance in Central Asia.
Etymology of CHAGHATAI
The word "Chaghatai" originates from the name of Chagatai Khan, the second son of Genghis Khan and the founder of the Chagatai Khanate. The Chagatai Khanate was a Mongol state that existed from the 13th to the 14th century in Central Asia. Over time, the term "Chaghatai" came to be associated with its ruling dynasty and their language, which is known as the Chagatai language. Thus, the etymology of the word "Chaghatai" is derived from the name of the historical figure Chagatai Khan and his kingdom.
