Pronunciation: [pɹˈɒθəm] (IPA) 
The spelling of the Bengali word "prothom" can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The first three letters "pro" are pronounced as [pɾɔ], with the 'r' sound being a flap. The last two letters "thom" are pronounced as [t̪ʰɔm], with a voiceless aspirated 't' and the 'o' sound being open-mid. The word "prothom" means "first" or "primary" in English and is commonly used in Bengali language and literature.
The word "prothom" is a term in Bengali language, deriving from the Sanskrit word "prathama," meaning "first" or "primary." As a noun, "prothom" refers to the initial or primary element or item in a series or sequence. It embodies the idea of being the foremost or earliest in a particular order or context.
Moreover, "prothom" can also function as an adjective, describing something that is in the first position or a state of being first. It denotes an object or concept that takes precedence over others or holds superior importance or significance.
In Bengali culture, "prothom" is often associated with beginnings, such as the first ray of sunlight at dawn, symbolizing new opportunities and initiations. It is also employed in discussions about rankings, where it emphasizes the topmost or most prestigious position.
Furthermore, "prothom" may be used colloquially to represent the first day of a month or week in the Bengali calendar. It marks the starting point of the lunar month, carrying cultural and traditional importance.
Overall, "prothom" encapsulates the essence of being the first, the initial, or the foremost component in a series, sequence, or hierarchical order, and holds cultural significance in both linguistic and calendrical contexts within the Bengali language.
The word "prothom" is derived from the Bengali language, which is primarily spoken in Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. In Bengali, "prothom" (প্রথম) means "first" or "primary". It is the superlative form of the word "pratham" (প্রথম), which means "the first". The etymology of "prothom" can be traced back to the Sanskrit language, where the root word "prathama" (प्रथम) has the same meaning.
