English Words Sourced from Sanskrit

English is an endlessly fascinating language. With a rich and ever-growing vocabulary, English has been inspired by numerous foreign languages over the centuries. In this blog, we look at some of the words that have become common in modern day English which have their origins in Sanskrit

1. Guru

The word guru as used in English is used in the same sense as Sanskrit and refers to a person who is regarded as a teacher, guide, expert or master.

2. Juggernaut

The word juggernaut, which means an overwhelming and unstoppable force, comes from the word “Jagannatha” which means ‘Lord of the World.’

3. Serpent

The word serpent comes from the Sanskrit word “sarpa” meaning snake.

4. Avatar

The word avatar comes from the Sanskrit word “avatara”, which means ‘descent’ and in Hinduism, the word refers to the manifestation or incarnation of a deity.

5. Loot

The word loot as used in English comes from the Sanskrit word “lunth” which means ‘to rob’. It is used both as a verb and as a noun in English, with the noun referring to goods that have been stolen.

6. Punch

While the word punch can refer to hitting someone with the fist, punch is also a drink that is made from wine or spirits and mixed with fruits and spices. This word comes from the Sanskrit word “pancha” which means ‘five’, as a traditional punch drink was made using five ingredients.

7. Pundit

In modern English usage, the word pundit is used to refer to a person who is highly skilled or an expert in a particular field. It comes from the Sanskrit word “pandit”, which means ‘learned’ or ‘skilled’ as well as a ‘learned man’.

8. Mantra

In English, the word mantra is used to refer to a slogan or a statement that is used often. It comes from the Sanskrit word “mantra” which means a hymn or a chant.

9. Jungle

The word jungle, as used to mean forest or wilderness comes from the Sanskrit word “jangala” which means an arid or an uncultivated piece of land.

10. Thug

Thug is an adjective usually used for a man who is violent or a bully. But in today’s world it is used as a slang, addressing somebody who is cool. It has got its origin in Hindi “Thag” meaning “swindler” that has come from the Sanskrit word “sthagati”.

11. Singapore

The English language name Singapore comes from its Malay name Singapura, which is believed to have been derived from Sanskrit meaning "Lion City". It is one of the Asian countries which is located at the Southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, about 85 miles north of the equator.

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10 Best Tourist Places in Varanasi 1. Kashi Vishwanath Temple – One of the oldest temples in India

Located about 5.3 km from Varanasi, the Kashi Vishwanath Temple is one of the holiest and oldest temples in the country. This glorious temple invites devotees of the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. The temple boasts domes and spires that are elegantly constructed using pure gold.

2. Assi Ghat – To seek spirituality

This is another popular destination on the list of tourist destinations in Varanasi that you must visit. This beautiful ghat (river bank) offers you a peaceful experience if you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Relaxing under the peepal trees or taking a relaxing boat ride to watch the panoramic sunset is something to do while visiting Assi Ghat. 3. Chunar Fort – A popular historical attraction

This is a popular attraction for history lovers. Located about 32 km from Varanasi, the Chunar Fort has played an important role in shaping the country’s history.

4. Dasaswamedh Ghat – The most exciting and vibrant ghat

If you’re travelling to Varanasi to experience divine bliss, then a visit to Dasaswamedh Ghat has to be on your itinerary. Here, you can witness spectacular Aartis conducted all along the river Ganga. Experience the magic at sunset when the entire ghat is illuminated with earthen lamps to begin the holy rituals. Here, you can participate in the spiritual ceremonies as priests and crowds gather to pay obeisance to God.

5. Ramnagar Fort & Museum – A spectacular historical monument

Varanasi has a lot of historical and holy tourist places that make it a popular destination to visit in India. Situated 14 km from Varanasi, the Ramnagar Fort & Museum is another spectacular historical monument that you must visit on your trip to Varanasi.

6. Alamgir Mosque – An exquisite shrine

When it comes to temples, Varanasi has a lot of them, but it also has a lot of other interesting places and shrines for all types of travellers. One such exquisite shrine is the Alamgir Mosque. Located 5.6 km from Varanasi, it is situated near the Panchganga Ghat

7. Godowlia Market – An exciting shopping experience

Leaving Varanasi without a shopping experience would make your trip incomplete, right? So, make a trip to the favourite Godowlia Market, a popular stop for shopaholics. Located in the Kashi Vishwanath Temple area, the market stretches for about 3 km.

8. Man Mandir Observatory – For science enthusiasts

If you’re visiting the Man Mandir Ghat, then a visit to the Man Mandir observatory is a must. Referred to as Jantar Mantar, it was constructed under the guidance and supervision of the king of Jaipur, Maharaja Jai Singh, who had an innate interest in science.

9. The Banaras Silk Emporium – A shopping paradise for silk lovers

Varanasi is known throughout the country for producing Banarasi saris and fine silk. Visit the Banaras Silk Emporium and take back extraordinary silk sarees and fabrics elegantly weaved to perfection.

10. Dhamek Stupa – The popular historical ruins

Hinduism has a place in Varanasi for sure, but so does Buddhism. Located about 12 km away in the Sarnath village, the Dhamek Stupa stands tall. The stupa is about 28 metres in diameter and 43.6 metres in height. It is a replacement structure that dates back to around 249 BCE. It’s believed that Buddha gave his first sermon here after achieving enlightenment.

Schedule our one-to-one lessons at Italki - ⁠⁠https://www.italki.com/ProfessorAshish⁠⁠

For Personalized individual and group classes, contact me - ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/ProfessorAshish⁠⁠

Me as a Teacher

✔️My name is Ashish & I am a Certified Professional Teacher of English, Hindi & Sanskrit with over 15 years of experience. I have helped hundreds of learners to achieve their dreams of Fluency & Impeccable Pronunciation in English, Hindi & Sanskrit. ✔️I run an English language school where I coach for Interviews, Business English, Writing skills and conversational English.