Eastern Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
eastern
[หiหstษrn ]
Definitions
geography
relating to the east, or situated in or towards the east
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| eastern |
Used to describe something that is located in or oriented towards the east. Commonly used in geographical contexts, broader regions, and countries.
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| oriental |
Historically used to refer to things related to Asia, but now considered outdated and sometimes offensive. It is best to avoid using this term.
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| easterly |
Often used in meteorology to describe winds that blow from the east. Also can describe directions or locations oriented towards the east.
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| eastward |
Describes movement in the direction of the east. Typically used in contexts involving travel or direction.
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Examples of usage
- The eastern part of the country is known for its beautiful beaches.
- She grew up in an eastern city with a rich cultural heritage.
politics
relating to or characteristic of a region or group that is further east
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| eastern |
Used to describe something located toward the east or coming from the east, or characteristic of the East. Commonly used in geography, politics, and cultural references.
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| oriental |
An older term used to refer to people, cultures, or objects from East Asia. Generally considered outdated and potentially offensive, so it is recommended to use 'Asian' or specific country names instead.
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| easterly |
Used to describe wind that is coming from the east or something aimed toward the east. Often used in meteorological contexts.
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| eastward |
Used to describe movement or direction toward the east. Typically found in geographical and navigational contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The Eastern European countries have undergone significant political changes in recent years.
- The Eastern Bloc refers to the socialist states of Eastern Europe during the Cold War.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Numerous major religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, have roots in eastern regions of the world.
- Traditional eastern philosophies often emphasize harmony, balance, and the connection between nature and humanity.
- Festivals like Lunar New Year celebrated in many eastern countries mark significant cultural transitions and are deeply rooted in history.
Geography
- The eastern part of a country or continent often has distinct climates, landscapes, and ecosystems.
- In the context of the United States, 'Eastern' refers to the area east of the Mississippi River, known for its dense population and history.
- Eastern Asia is home to some of the world's largest and most populous countries, including China and Japan.
Arts and Literature
- Many classic literary works, such as those from ancient China, offer philosophical insights that reflect eastern culture and thought.
- Eastern art forms, including calligraphy and ink painting, emphasize fluid movement and harmony with nature.
- Folklore and mythology from eastern cultures are rich with symbolism, often teaching moral lessons through stories.
Modern Usage
- The term 'Eastern' is often used in geopolitical discussions to define a group of countries with shared cultural and historical ties.
- Eastern cuisine, characterized by diverse flavors and techniques, has gained global popularity, influencing food trends worldwide.
- Eastern fashion design often blends traditional aesthetics with modern styles, creating a unique fusion in the global fashion scene.
Origin of 'eastern'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'eastern', meaning 'of the East'.
- In many languages, the word for 'east' is derived from a root that means 'to shine' or 'to dawn', highlighting the sunrise's significance.
- Historically, the east was often associated with light, growth, and new beginnings due to the sunrise.
The word 'eastern' originated from the Old English word 'easterne', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic 'austron'. This word is related to the direction of the rising sun and has been used to describe the eastern regions of the world for centuries.