KAVASSES Meaning and
Definition
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Kavasses, originally derived from the Turkish word "kavas," refers to the historical role of a guard, servant, or messenger in the Ottoman Empire and other Eastern European countries. In the context of these societies, a kavass served as a personal attendant to high-ranking government officials, diplomats, or military officers.
Typically, a kavass would be a loyal and trustworthy individual who acted as a protector and aide to their assigned employer. They were responsible for various duties, which included maintaining security, ensuring the safety of their employer, running errands, and delivering messages. Kavasses often wore distinctive uniforms or carried emblematic symbols of their office, assisting in their identification and showcasing their authority.
Beyond their protective and logistical roles, kavasses played a significant part in ceremonial events. They would accompany their employers during official functions, such as diplomatic visits or state ceremonies, where their presence added prestige and highlighted the importance of their masters.
While the term "kavass" originally applied to the Ottoman Empire, it later became more broadly used to describe similar roles in other countries with historical ties to the Ottoman Empire or Eastern Europe. Today, the term "kavass" is predominantly found in historical contexts, as the role itself has largely diminished in modern society.
Common Misspellings for KAVASSES
- javasses
- mavasses
- lavasses
- oavasses
- iavasses
- kzvasses
- ksvasses
- kwvasses
- kqvasses
- kacasses
- kabasses
- kagasses
- kafasses
- kavzsses
- kavssses
- kavwsses
- kavqsses
- kavaases
- kavazses
Etymology of KAVASSES
The word "Kavasses" is derived from the Turkish word "kavas", which originally referred to an Ottoman Empire military rank. The term "kavas" itself is believed to have originated from the Persian word "kāwus", which was used to designate a high-ranking military official or commander. Over time, the term "kavas" evolved in the Ottoman Empire to refer to a specific group of servants or messengers who worked for high-ranking government officials, embassies, or the sultan himself. These kavasses were known for their loyalty, discipline, and their distinctive uniforms. The term "Kavasses" eventually made its way into various European languages, including English, to refer to the Ottoman Empire's servants or attendants.
