प्रणाम

/prəɳɑːm/
greeting

माता जी को प्रणाम करो।

Greet your mother.


formal

a respectful greeting or salutation, typically with folded hands

बच्चों ने गुरु जी को प्रणाम किया।

The children greeted the teacher respectfully.

प्रणाम करते हुए उसने सिर झुकाया।

Bowing his head, he greeted with folded hands.

Used in formal or respectful contexts, often in Hindu cultural traditions.

Pro Tip

Cultural Context

In India, 'प्रणाम' is often accompanied by touching the feet of elders as a mark of deep respect, especially in traditional families.

Gold Rule

Usage

Always use 'प्रणाम' in formal or respectful situations, not casual greetings.

Word Origin

Sanskrit 'praṇāma' (प्रणाम), from 'pra-' (forward) + 'nam' (to bow).

Usage Notes

Commonly used in Hindu cultural contexts to show respect to elders, teachers, or deities. The gesture involves placing palms together near the chest and bowing slightly.

Word Breakdown

प्र
forward
prefix
+
णाम
to bow
root
हिन्दी-अंग्रेज़ी शब्दकोश