etymology.today
04.04.2025 | see previous words
ر
ُ
م
ا
ن
"rumman"
Persian
> DEFINITION:
Pomegranate, a fruit with a tough outer skin and sweet, juicy seeds.
> ETYMOLOGY:
Origin: The word 'رُمان' (rumman) originates from the Middle Persian word 'lrmn', which in turn comes from the Old Persian 'aúra-mana'. It is related to the Sanskrit word 'dāḍima', which refers to the pomegranate fruit. The term was borrowed into Arabic during the early Islamic period.
Historical and Cultural Context: The pomegranate has been cultivated since ancient times across the Mediterranean and Middle East. It holds significant cultural and religious symbolism in various societies, often associated with fertility and abundance.
Evolution: Over centuries, the pronunciation and spelling of the word adapted slightly to fit different languages and scripts, but it retained its association with the fruit. The Hebrew 'rimon' and the Greek 'rhoe' are cognates, showing its widespread influence.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'رُمان' (rumman) is commonly used in Persian-speaking regions to refer to the fruit. It is celebrated in culinary and cultural contexts, often featured in traditional dishes and art.
Historical and Cultural Context: The pomegranate has been cultivated since ancient times across the Mediterranean and Middle East. It holds significant cultural and religious symbolism in various societies, often associated with fertility and abundance.
Evolution: Over centuries, the pronunciation and spelling of the word adapted slightly to fit different languages and scripts, but it retained its association with the fruit. The Hebrew 'rimon' and the Greek 'rhoe' are cognates, showing its widespread influence.
Modern Relevance: Today, 'رُمان' (rumman) is commonly used in Persian-speaking regions to refer to the fruit. It is celebrated in culinary and cultural contexts, often featured in traditional dishes and art.
> FUN_FACT:
In Persian mythology, the pomegranate is believed to have originated from the blood of the god Mithra, symbolizing immortality and rebirth.

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