Erivan is the old name of Yerevan, the capital city of Armenia. The spelling of "Erivan" is based on the phonetic transcription (IPA) of the word. The first sound is "ˈɛrəvan" where the "ə" represents a schwa sound in the middle of the word. The second sound is "jɛɾɛvɑn" where the "j" represents a y sound in the beginning, and "ɑ" represents an "a" sound at the end. The spelling "Erivan" is therefore an accurate representation of the way the word sounds in Armenian.
Erivan is a term that is no longer in common use and has multiple meanings, depending on the context. It can refer to the capital city of Armenia, a region in Russia, or a type of rug.
In its primary definition, Erivan denotes the former name for the capital city of Armenia, now known as Yerevan. Located in the southwestern region of the country, Yerevan is the largest city in Armenia and serves as its administrative, cultural, and industrial center. It has a rich history dating back thousands of years and is characterized by its diverse architectural styles, including Soviet-era buildings, modern structures, and ancient landmarks.
Additionally, Erivan can refer to the historical region within the Russian Federation. Situated in the North Caucasus, Erivan was a province of the Russian Empire until the early 20th century, when it was transferred to the Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic and later formed part of the independent Republic of Azerbaijan.
Lastly, Erivan can also pertain to a type of rug originating from the region of Erivan in Armenia. These rugs are known for their intricate designs, vibrant colors, and exceptional craftsmanship. Erivan rugs have been highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts for their cultural significance and artistic value.
The word "Erivan" is derived from the Armenian word "Yerevan" (Երևան). The etymology of "Yerevan" is uncertain, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that it comes from the Persian word "Irevan" or "Erewan", which means "Holy place" or "The Temple of Julfa". Another theory proposes that it is derived from the Armenian words "Erev" (meaning "evening") and "vank" (meaning "monastery"), referring to the monastery complex that existed in the area. The word "Erivan" is an anglicized version of "Yerevan" and has been historically used in English-language literature and documents. However, the official and commonly used name for the capital of Armenia is now "Yerevan".