Bahuvrihis meaning

Bahuvrihis are compound words consisting of two or more lexical elements that together create a new meaning.


Bahuvrihis definitions

Word backwards sihirvuhab
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ba-hu-vri-his
Plural The plural of the word "bahuvrihi" is "bahuvrihis".
Total letters 10
Vogais (3) a,u,i
Consonants (5) b,h,v,r,s

Bahuvrihis

In the field of linguistics, a bahuvrihi is a type of compound word that consists of two or more elements that do not individually refer to the meaning of the compound. Instead, the compound as a whole conveys a specific meaning. These compounds are often used in various languages to create words that describe or identify a particular characteristic or attribute.

Structure of Bahuvrihis

The structure of a bahuvrihi compound typically involves two elements, with one element serving as the qualifier and the other as the head. The head element is the key component that carries the main meaning of the compound, while the qualifier element provides additional information or context. Together, these elements form a new word with a specialized meaning.

Examples of Bahuvrihis

Examples of bahuvrihi compounds can be found in various languages. For instance, in English, the word "blackbird" is a bahuvrihi compound where "black" serves as the qualifier, describing the color of the bird, and "bird" serves as the head, identifying the type of animal. Similarly, in Sanskrit, the word "mahāpuruṣa" is a bahuvrihi compound meaning "great person," with "mahā" meaning great and "puruṣa" meaning person.

Usage of Bahuvrihis

Bahuvrihis are commonly used in literature, poetry, and everyday language to create vivid descriptions, convey emotions, or emphasize certain qualities. By combining different elements, writers and speakers can craft unique words that capture specific nuances and meanings. The use of bahuvrihis adds depth and richness to language, allowing for creative expression and communication.

Significance of Bahuvrihis

The use of bahuvrihis highlights the creative potential of language and the ways in which words can be combined to produce new meanings. By understanding the structure and function of these compounds, linguists can explore the complexity and versatility of language systems. Bahuvrihis offer a fascinating glimpse into the intricate nature of word formation and the power of language to shape our perception of the world.


Bahuvrihis Examples

  1. The term "blackbird" is a bahuvrihi compound word, referring to a bird with black feathers.
  2. A "redhead" is another example of a bahuvrihi, describing a person with red hair.
  3. In mythology, a "hunchback" is often portrayed as a bahuvrihi character due to their distinctive physical feature.
  4. The word "whitewash" is a bahuvrihi compound used to describe a process of making something white by applying a substance.
  5. A "sightseer" is someone who travels to see interesting or famous places, making it a bahuvrihi term.
  6. The term "pickpocket" is a bahuvrihi compound word for someone who steals by taking items from pockets.
  7. A "blockhead" is a bahuvrihi term used to describe someone who is considered stupid or slow-witted.
  8. A "crybaby" is a bahuvrihi word used to describe someone who cries easily or frequently.
  9. The term "skyscraper" is a bahuvrihi compound referring to a very tall building that seems to scrape the sky.
  10. A "know-it-all" is someone who acts as if they know everything, another example of a bahuvrihi term.


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  • Updated 28/06/2024 - 18:06:22