How Do You Spell COOMARASWAMY?

Pronunciation: [kˈuːmɐɹˌaswɒmi] (IPA)

The spelling of the word "coomaraswamy" may seem intimidating, but its pronunciation is actually quite straightforward with the use of IPA phonetic transcription. The word is pronounced as /kuːmərɑːswəmi/. The key to the correct pronunciation lies in the emphasis on the second syllable, "ra", and the choice of the long "oo" sound at the start of the word. The word is a surname often associated with the renowned Sri Lankan writer and art historian, Ananda Coomaraswamy.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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COOMARASWAMY Meaning and Definition

  1. Coomaraswamy refers to Ananda Kentish Coomaraswamy, an influential figure in the field of art history and cultural philosophy. Born on August 22, 1877, in Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon) to a Sri Lankan father and an English mother, Coomaraswamy is renowned for his pioneering work in the understanding and interpretation of Indian art and culture.

    Coomaraswamy's contributions were multifaceted and spanned various disciplines, including art history, aesthetics, and the philosophy of religion. He is particularly known for his deep insights into the artistic traditions of India, specifically his interpretations of Hindu and Buddhist art. His studies emphasized the spiritual and metaphysical aspects of art, seeing it not merely as a medium of creative expression but also as a channel for transcendent experiences and a language for conveying higher truths.

    Coomaraswamy's writings and research significantly influenced the Western understanding of Eastern art and culture. His definitions and analyses offered a distinct perspective that emphasized the spiritual dimensions of art, challenging prevailing Eurocentric interpretations. These views were rooted in his appreciation for the unity and universality of art across cultures, highlighting the importance of recognizing cultural context and significance in understanding artistic creations.

    Today, Coomaraswamy's legacy continues to inspire scholars and enthusiasts interested in Indian art, spirituality, and cross-cultural studies. His contributions have enriched the field and encouraged a deeper exploration and understanding of art's role in shaping societies and reflecting the human experience.

Etymology of COOMARASWAMY

The word "Coomaraswamy" is a proper noun and typically represents a surname of Tamil origin.

This surname is known to have originated from the Tamil-speaking region of South India and Sri Lanka. The etymology of "Coomaraswamy" can be broken down as follows:

1. "Coo" or "Koo" is a prefix that comes from the Tamil word "Kooru/Koorai", meaning "from" or "of". It indicates belonging or provenance.

2. "Maraswamy" or "Marar" is a compound word. "Mara" means "delight" or "wish" in Tamil, and "swamy" or "swami" means "lord" or "master" in several Indian languages. Therefore, "Maraswamy" suggests a joyful or blessed lord.