Pronunciation: [dˈɪwən] (IPA) 
The word "diwan" can be spelled in different ways and the pronunciation varies depending on the dialect. In English, it is commonly spelled with a "w" at the end, but in Arabic it is spelled with an "n". The correct pronunciation is /ˈdiːwæn/ with stress on the first syllable. The "d" is pronounced as in "do", the "i" as in "see", and the "w" as in "we". The final "n" sound in Arabic is not pronounced in English.
Diwan, in its original sense, refers to a collection or compilation of poems written by a single author. However, the term has evolved to encompass various meanings across different cultures and languages.
In Persian and Urdu literature, a diwan is a type of poetic manuscript or anthology that typically contains a poet's collected works. These diwans often include ghazals, qasidas, and other poetic forms. They serve as a comprehensive record of a poet's writings and are considered an essential component of their literary legacy.
In some Islamic cultures, a diwan also refers to a governmental office or administrative body responsible for managing finances. This administrative meaning has historical associations with the Arab Caliphate and Ottoman Empire, where a diwan would oversee financial matters, record expenditures, and manage taxation.
The term "diwan" has further expanded to include a type of seating furniture. In this context, a diwan usually refers to a long, low, and cushioned sofa or couch traditionally found in Eastern cultures. It may be ornately carved and adorned with intricate designs or patterns, reflecting the artistic heritage of the region. Diwans are often placed against walls in a room and may be used for relaxation, socializing, or even for sleeping purposes.
Overall, the term "diwan" encompasses diverse meanings, ranging from poetic collections and administrative offices to pieces of furniture. Its usage varies depending on the specific context and cultural background in which it is employed.
The word "diwan" has its origins in the Persian language. In Persian, it originally meant a "book of accounts" or a "register". Over time, the meaning expanded to include a variety of other related concepts.
From Persian, the term was borrowed into Arabic, where it took on several different meanings. In Arabic, "diwan" can refer to a collection of poems or other literary works. It can also mean a government department or administrative body, particularly in reference to financial matters.
The word "diwan" was further adopted into various other languages, including Turkish, Urdu, and Hindi, where it retained its general sense of a collection of poems or a literary work. In these languages, it can also refer to an office or a bureau.
