MADRAS Meaning and
Definition
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Madras refers to multiple meanings and can be used as a noun or an adjective. As a noun, it commonly refers to a lightweight, plain-woven cotton fabric with a distinctive checked pattern. Madras fabric originates from the city of Madras (now Chennai) in India, where it was initially exclusively produced. The fabric is known for its vibrant colors and bold patterns, often featuring different colored stripes or checks.
Additionally, Madras can also refer to a city in southeastern India, which is the capital of the state of Tamil Nadu. Historically, Madras was an important trading and colonial center, attracting numerous European explorers and traders.
As an adjective, Madras can describe something or someone related to the city of Madras or its culture, such as "Madras cuisine" or "Madras music." It can also be used to describe the checked pattern resembling the fabric, as in "a Madras shirt."
In a broader context, "madras" may also refer to the style of clothing associated with the British colonizers in India during the 18th and 19th centuries, typically made from the aforementioned lightweight cotton fabric. These garments, often featuring the distinctive checked pattern, were popular among the British in hot climates due to the breathable and lightweight nature of the fabric.
Common Misspellings for MADRAS
Etymology of MADRAS
The word "madras" has its origins in the city of Chennai, in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. In the 17th century, Chennai was a significant trading post for the British East India Company. The word "madras" is believed to have been derived from the Portuguese term "madeira", which means "wood", referring to the wooden fishing villages that were prevalent along the coast. Over time, this term was anglicized to "Madras". The city of Chennai was historically known by the name "Madras" until 1996 when it was officially changed to Chennai.
Similar spelling words for MADRAS
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