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Swastika: meaning, definitions and examples

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swastika

 

[ ˈswɒstɪkə ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

symbol, culture

The swastika is an ancient symbol that has been used for over 12,000 years in various cultures around the world, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Native American traditions. Traditionally, it represents good fortune, well-being, and prosperity. However, its meaning drastically changed in the 20th century when it was adopted by the Nazi Party in Germany, becoming a symbol of hate, anti-Semitism, and the atrocities of the Holocaust. In modern contexts, the swastika continues to provoke strong emotions and is often associated with the far-right movements.

Synonyms

gammadion, good luck symbol, lucky sign

Examples of usage

  • The swastika is considered a sacred symbol in Hinduism.
  • In Nazi Germany, the swastika was used as a party emblem.
  • Some Native American tribes used the swastika in their art.
  • After World War II, the swastika became synonymous with hate.
  • The swastika has complex meanings across different cultures.

Translations

Translations of the word "swastika" in other languages:

🇵🇹 suástica

🇮🇳 स्वास्तिका

🇩🇪 Swastika

🇮🇩 swastika

🇺🇦 свастика

🇵🇱 swastyka

🇯🇵 スワスティカ

🇫🇷 swastika

🇪🇸 svástica

🇹🇷 svastika

🇰🇷 스와스티카

🇸🇦 سواستيكه

🇨🇿 svastika

🇸🇰 svastika

🇨🇳 卍

🇸🇮 svastika

🇮🇸 svastika

🇰🇿 суастика

🇬🇪 სვასტიკა

🇦🇿 svastika

🇲🇽 svástica

Etymology

The term 'swastika' comes from the Sanskrit word 'svastika', which means 'well-being' or 'good fortune'. Its usage can be traced back to ancient civilizations, particularly in the Indus Valley, where it appeared in various artifacts. The symbol has been found on pottery and sacred sites across different cultures, indicating its long-standing significance. In Hinduism, it symbolizes the sun and the cycle of life, often used in religious rituals. The swastika was also prevalent in early 20th-century Western culture before it was appropriated by the Nazis in the 1920s, leading to its association with fascism and the negative connotations that persist today. This shift in meaning has complicated its perception; thus, it remains a contentious symbol in contemporary society.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,234, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.