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Lotus Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lotus

[ˈloʊtəs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

plant type

The lotus is a type of flowering plant in the family Nymphaeaceae, known for its large, fragrant flowers that usually bloom during the day. It grows in shallow water and is often associated with purity and beauty in various cultures.

Synonyms

Nymphaea, water lily.

Examples of usage

  • The lotus flower rises above the muddy water.
  • In ancient Egypt, the lotus was a symbol of resurrection.
  • The lotus plant is often found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Context #2 | Noun

cultural symbol

The lotus is often used as a symbol in various religions and philosophies, representing enlightenment, rebirth, and spiritual awakening. In Buddhism, it signifies purity and the quest for enlightenment, as it grows in muddy water but blooms beautifully.

Synonyms

emblem, spiritual symbol.

Examples of usage

  • In Buddhism, the lotus symbolizes the purity of the body and mind.
  • The lotus is an important symbol in Hinduism, representing spiritual awakening.
  • Many paintings depict the Buddha seated on a lotus.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In Hinduism, the lotus represents purity and spiritual awakening, often associated with deities like Lakshmi and Vishnu.
  • The flower is a national symbol in several countries, including India and Vietnam, where it embodies beauty and resilience.
  • In Buddhism, the lotus flower symbolizes enlightenment and the journey from ignorance to knowledge, akin to rising from muddy waters.

Nature

  • Lotus plants can thrive in the most challenging environments, showcasing their ability to grow in muddy waters with little light.
  • The leaves of the lotus are notable for their ability to repel dirt and water, a phenomenon known as the 'lotus effect'.
  • There are over 50 species of lotus, with the most common being the 'blue lotus' and the 'sacred lotus', each adapted to specific climates.

Art and Literature

  • Lotus flowers often appear in art and architecture, especially in ancient Asian temples where they are a frequent motif.
  • In literature, the lotus is sometimes used as a metaphor for growth and transformation, appearing in poems about nature and spirituality.
  • Artists like Claude Monet have famously captured the essence of the lotus in their paintings, emphasizing its beauty and tranquility.

Science

  • The lotus is a subject of scientific study due to its unique properties, such as natural antibacterial characteristics found in its leaves.
  • In addition to its ornamental uses, parts of the lotus plant can be used in cooking and traditional medicine, giving it a culinary significance.
  • The lotus flower's structure allows it to regulate its own temperature, a feature called thermoregulation, which attracts pollinators.

Origin of 'lotus'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'lotus' comes from the Latin 'lotus', which itself is derived from the Greek 'lotos', referring to both the flower and a fruit.
  • In ancient Egypt, the lotus was called 'seshen' and was deeply connected to the sun and creation.
  • Different languages have variations of the word, such as 'nelumbo' in Latin for the sacred lotus species that is famous for its religious significance.

The word 'lotus' originates from the Latin term 'lotus' and Greek 'lōtos', which both refer to various flowering plants, particularly those in the Nymphaeaceae family. The botanical name 'Nymphaea' comes from the Latin word 'nympha', meaning 'nymph,' which reflects the association of these beautiful flowers with aquatic life and the idea of beauty rising from murky waters. The lotus has been celebrated in various cultures throughout history, particularly in Egyptian and Asian traditions, where its ability to bloom beautifully despite growing in muddy ponds has been viewed as a metaphor for purity and spiritual emergence. The symbolism of the lotus extends into art, religion, and literature, where it often represents enlightenment and the journey toward achieving higher states of consciousness.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,431, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.