The spelling of the word "parangi" may seem confusing, but with the help of IPA phonetic transcription, it becomes clear. The word is pronounced /pəˈræŋɡi/, with the stress on the second syllable. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced "uh," while the "a" in the second syllable is pronounced "a" like in "hat." The "r" is pronounced with a rolled tongue, and the "ng" is a combination of the "n" and "g" sounds, with the back of the tongue touching the soft palate.
Parangi is a term originating from the Malayalam language, mainly used in the southwestern coastal region of India, particularly in the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. This word is often employed as a slang or derogatory term to describe a foreigner, particularly one of European or Western descent.
The literal translation of "parangi" from Malayalam to English is "foreigner" or "outsider." However, over time, its usage has evolved to acquire a negative connotation. The origin of this term dates back to the colonial era when Europeans first arrived in India. It is believed to have originated from the word "firangi," which means foreigner in Hindi.
In contemporary usage, "parangi" is often used in a pejorative sense to denote someone who is perceived as culturally different or unfamiliar. It can be used to describe a person's physical appearance, behavior, or simply to identify individuals who do not belong to the local community. However, it is essential to note that the term's context and tone determine whether it is intended to be offensive or not.
Due to its negative undertones, it is crucial to approach the term "parangi" with caution. It is always advisable to use more respectful and inclusive language when referring to individuals from different backgrounds or nationalities to foster understanding and appreciation of diversity.
A disease of the skin occurring in Ceylon, thought to be the same as yaws.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "parangi" has its origins in Tamil, a Dravidian language spoken predominantly in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. In the Tamil language, "parangi" (பரங்கி) originally referred to Europeans or people of European descent.
The term itself is believed to have originated during the colonial period when European explorers, traders, and colonizers arrived in Tamil-speaking regions. The word "parangi" is thought to be a corruption or alteration of the Portuguese word "frank", which was used to refer to the French initially and later, Europeans in general.
Over time, "parangi" has been absorbed into various South Asian languages, including Malayalam and Sinhalese, with similar meanings of foreigner, European, or white person.