Pronunciation: [pˈɑːlɐvˌi] (IPA) 
The word "pahlavi" is often misspelled as "palavi" due to its complex pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, the proper spelling of this word is /pɑːlɑːvi/. The "h" in "pahlavi" is silent, and the "a" sound is long. Additionally, the "i" at the end of the word is pronounced as "ee." Pahlavi refers to the ancient language of the Persian Empire and the name of the dynasty that ruled Iran from the 1920s to 1979.
Pahlavi refers to multiple meanings, but its primary definition revolves around its historical and cultural significance in ancient Persia and modern Iran.
Firstly, Pahlavi refers to an ancient script that was used for writing the Persian language from the 3rd century BCE until the 9th century CE. This script was derived from Aramaic and introduced during the reign of the Parthian Empire. Pahlavi scripts were primarily inscribed on rock, metal, and parchment, and were used to document various aspects of ancient Persian culture, literature, and history.
Secondly, Pahlavi is the surname of the last ruling dynasty in Iran before the Islamic Revolution of 1979. The Pahlavi dynasty, led by Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, ruled Iran from 1925 to 1979. During their reign, they implemented modernization reforms, including those in education, industry, and infrastructure. However, the dynasty faced tremendous challenges, including political unrest and opposition, which ultimately resulted in their overthrow.
Lastly, in modern Iran, Pahlavi can also refer to the title given to Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the eldest son of the late Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi. Reza Pahlavi currently resides outside Iran and has been a prominent figure advocating for democracy and human rights within the country.
In summary, the term "pahlavi" encompasses a historical script, a ruling dynasty, and an influential figure in modern Iran. It is a multifaceted term that denotes crucial periods, different aspects of Persian culture, and significant historical events in Iran's history.
The word "Pahlavi" has its origins in the Middle Persian language, known as Pahlavi, which was spoken from the 3rd to the 7th century CE in the area that is now Iran. The term itself comes from the Old Persian word "pahlavaka" or "Parsig", which means "a Parthian".
The Parthians were an ancient Iranian people who established the Parthian Empire, which ruled over vast territories in the region from the 3rd century BCE to the 3rd century CE. The name "Pahlavi" was used to refer to the language, script, and people associated with the Parthians.
During the Sassanian Empire (3rd to 7th century CE), the Middle Persian language evolved from earlier Old Persian and became known as Pahlavi.
