Dhoti

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈdoʊ.ti/ or /d̪ʱoː.t̪i/

Definitions

• A traditional Indian garment, a long rectangular piece of cloth wrapped around the waist and legs, commonly worn by men.
• An attire symbolizing cultural heritage, often associated with religious and ceremonial occasions.

Usage Examples

• "The priest wore a white dhoti for the temple ritual."
• "Mahatma Gandhi often wore a simple cotton dhoti as a mark of humility."

Etymology

Derived from Sanskrit धौती (dhauti), meaning 'cleansing' or 'washed garment,' later evolving into 'dhoti' in Hindi and other Indian languages.

Synonyms

• Dhooti
• Loincloth
• Traditional wrap

Antonyms

• Trousers
• Pants
• Jeans

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In North India, it is pronounced as /d̪ʱoː.t̪i/, whereas in South India, it may vary slightly in tonal emphasis.

Historical Usage

The dhoti has been worn in India for thousands of years, depicted in ancient sculptures and texts. It was commonly worn by scholars, saints, and political figures like Mahatma Gandhi, who popularized its simplicity.

Cultural Nuances

The dhoti is a symbol of traditional attire in many Indian states. It is worn during religious ceremonies, weddings, and formal events. In some regions, different styles of draping indicate social status or cultural identity.

More Information

Dhoti remains an integral part of South Asian fashion, particularly in India, Nepal, and Bangladesh. While Western clothing has gained popularity, the dhoti continues to hold religious and cultural significance. It is made from cotton or silk, often in plain white or adorned with decorative borders.