VocabDictionary

purdah

/ˈpɜː.də/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

The practice among certain Muslim and Hindu societies of screening women from men or strangers by means of a curtain or opaque garment.

Example Sentences:
  • In the past, women of high status in the region lived strictly in purdah.
  • The introduction of modern education helped many women step out of purdah and into public life.
2.noun

A state of seclusion, concealment, or isolation from public view or activity.

Example Sentences:
  • The politician emerged from political purdah to address the media.
  • The company kept its new product launch in purdah until the official convention.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “purdah”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Persian word 'parda', meaning 'curtain', 'veil', or 'screen'. The term entered the English language during the British colonial period in India, referring to the traditional practice among some Muslim and Hindu communities of secluding women from public observation by means of concealing screens or garments.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'purdah' as 'curtain'—a curtain used to shield women from public view.

Frequently Asked Questions About “purdah

1. What is the meaning of “purdah” in English?

In English, purdah (noun) is defined as: “The practice among certain Muslim and Hindu societies of screening women from men or strangers by means of a curtain or opaque garment.”.

2. How do you use “purdah” in a sentence?

In the past, women of high status in the region lived strictly in purdah.

3. What are English synonyms of “purdah”?

Common synonyms include:seclusion,veil,screen,isolation,privacy

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “purdah”?

Derived from the Persian word 'parda', meaning 'curtain', 'veil', or 'screen'. The term entered the English language during the British colonial period in India, referring to the traditional practice among some Muslim and Hindu communities of secluding women from public observation by means of concealing screens or garments.