The word "taman" is a Malay term commonly used in Indonesia and Malaysia to refer to a public park or garden. The spelling of the word reflects the phonetics of the Malay language. The IPA phonetic transcription of "taman" is /tɑmɑn/, which indicates that the "a" sounds are pronounced as open back unrounded vowels, and the "m" sound is pronounced with the lips coming together to close, then separating to release the sound. When pronounced correctly, "taman" sounds like "TAH-mahn".
Taman is an Indonesian word that refers to a park or garden. It is commonly used in Indonesia and Malaysia to describe a public space that is landscaped and designed for recreational purposes.
A taman typically consists of lush greenery, trees, flowers, and well-maintained lawns. It is often equipped with amenities such as benches, walking paths, playgrounds, and fountains, providing a serene environment for individuals and families to relax and enjoy nature. Taman can be found in urban areas, suburban neighborhoods, and even in rural regions, serving as important social gathering spots for the community.
Taman also has cultural significance in Indonesia. In traditional Javanese culture, taman is associated with the concept of kebaya, which represents harmony between humans and nature. These gardens often incorporate elements of Javanese aesthetics and design, such as traditional sculptures, water features, and the use of natural materials.
Furthermore, taman can also refer to a neighborhood or residential area in Malaysia. In this context, it indicates a housing development that comprises houses and amenities within a specific area. These residential tamans often include communal facilities like parks, playgrounds, and sometimes even swimming pools or sports facilities. Tamans are designed to create a sense of community and provide a pleasant living environment for residents.
Overall, the term taman embodies the notion of green spaces and recreational areas, making them essential components of urban planning and community development in Indonesia and Malaysia.
The word "taman" has different etymologies depending on the language or culture that it is derived from:
1. Indonesian/Malay: The word "taman" in Indonesian and Malay languages, primarily spoken in Indonesia and Malaysia, is derived from the Sanskrit word "dāman", which means "garden" or "park". The Sanskrit word was adopted during the period of Indian cultural influence in the region.
2. Turkish: In Turkish, the word "taman" means "amount", "level", or "sum". etymology can be traced back to the Arabic word "thamān" meaning "price" or "value". Turkish borrowed the word from Arabic and it evolved to have a slightly different meaning over time.
3. Arab countries: In some Arab countries, particularly those in the Gulf region, "taman" (تمان) is the word for the number eight.