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Divan Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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divan

[dɪˈvɑːn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

furniture piece

A long backless sofa (usually with pillows against a wall).

Synonyms

couch, settee, sofa.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
divan

Often used to describe a long, low sofa without a back or arms, typically placed against a wall. It can also refer to a bed-like bench or a piece of furniture that can function as both a seat and a bed.

  • She placed colorful cushions on the divan by the window.
  • The guest room has a divan that can be used for sitting during the day and sleeping at night.
sofa

A standard term, somewhat more formal than 'couch,' used to describe a long upholstered seat with back and arms, designed for multiple people. Suitable in both casual and formal settings.

  • They chose a luxurious leather sofa for their living room.
  • The sofa was so comfortable that guests didn't want to leave.
couch

A common, informal term for a long piece of furniture where people can sit or lie down. It is widely used in casual conversations and can describe a variety of styles.

  • They lounged on the couch watching TV.
  • Please move the couch closer to the fireplace.
settee

A more formal or old-fashioned term for a small sofa or loveseat, usually designed to seat two or three people. It can evoke a sense of classic or antique furniture.

  • The settee in the parlor is an antique passed down from generations.
  • They bought a beautiful settee for their sitting room.

Examples of usage

  • The divan in the living room is perfect for lounging.
  • She likes to read books while sitting on the divan.
Context #2 | Noun

historical context

A council of state in Turkey and other countries of the Middle East.

Synonyms

assembly, council, parliament.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
divan

Use 'divan' to refer to a type of sofa or a long seat, often without a backrest, typically found in living rooms or other lounge areas. It can also refer to a specific administrative body in some Middle Eastern countries.

  • She reclined on the divan, reading a book.
  • The divan discussed the new policies that would affect trade.
council

Use 'council' to refer to a group of people elected or appointed to make decisions or advise on governmental or organizational matters.

  • The city council approved the new public park project.
  • She was selected to be a member of the student council.
assembly

Use 'assembly' to refer to a group of people gathered together for a common purpose, particularly in a legislative context, such as a formal governmental or educational meeting.

  • The school assembly will be held at 10 AM in the auditorium.
  • The National Assembly debated the new law for hours.
parliament

Use 'parliament' to refer to the supreme legislative body in many countries, composed of elected representatives who make laws, debate policies, and discuss national issues.

  • Parliament is scheduled to vote on the new budget next week.
  • The prime minister addressed parliament regarding the current economic situation.

Examples of usage

  • The divan met to discuss matters of national importance.
  • He served as a member of the divan for many years.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Middle Eastern culture, divans were often found in homes as places for guests to sit, signifying hospitality.
  • Divans are common in traditional Turkish coffee houses, where they provide a comfortable setting for long conversations.
  • During the Victorian era, divans became fashionable in Western homes, melding Eastern aesthetics with Western styles.

Literature

  • Divans are often mentioned in classical poetry, symbolizing rest, contemplation, and social gatherings.
  • Famous works, like the 'Divan' by the Persian poet Hafiz, explore themes of love and beauty, hinting at the couch's cultural importance.
  • Numerous novels depict protagonists lounging on divans, highlighting a lifestyle of leisure and elegance.

Interior Design

  • Modern divans often incorporate storage options, making them functional as well as stylish pieces of furniture.
  • They can be upholstered in various materials, ranging from plush fabrics to sleek leathers, adapting to diverse interior aesthetics.
  • In contemporary design, divans may serve as versatile seating that can replace traditional sofas in smaller spaces.

Art

  • In traditional Persian art, depictions of divans often showcase opulent settings and emphasize relaxation and wealth.
  • Artists like Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres used divans in their compositions to convey intimacy and elegance in social settings.
  • Divans are popular subjects in still-life paintings, reflecting the cultural importance of lounging and leisure in various societies.

Origin of 'divan'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Arabic 'diwan', which originally referred to a council or office.
  • In Turkish, 'divan' signifies both a government assembly and a type of couch, showing its dual meaning through history.
  • The term evolved through Persian culture, where it denoted a sofa or seating arrangement in a grand setting.

The word 'divan' has roots in the Ottoman Empire, where it originally referred to a council of state. Over time, the term evolved to also describe a type of furniture, specifically a long backless sofa. The divan became popular in Western culture during the 18th century as a piece of luxurious seating. Today, it is commonly used to refer to a sofa or couch in informal settings.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,925, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.