The word “ayah” has different meanings and associations in various cultures and languages. It is a word that has been used for centuries and has evolved to encompass different concepts and ideas. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of ayah, its origins, and its associations.
Definitions
The word “ayah” has several definitions, depending on the context in which it is used. In Arabic, ayah means a sign or a miracle. In Urdu and Hindi, it means a nanny or a maid. In English, ayah refers to a nursemaid who looks after children.
Origin
The word “ayah” originated from the Arabic language. It is derived from the root word “a-y-h” which means to show, to make clear, or to reveal. In the Quran, ayah is used to refer to the verses or chapters of the holy book. The verses are considered as signs from Allah, and they contain messages and guidance for the believers.
Meaning in different dictionaries
In the Oxford English Dictionary, ayah is defined as “a native nursemaid or governess employed by Europeans in India, China, or the East Indies.” In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, ayah is defined as “a native nurse or maid in India.” In the Arabic-English dictionary, ayah is defined as “a sign, a miracle, a verse of the Quran.”
Associations
The word ayah is associated with childcare, as it refers to a nursemaid or a nanny who looks after children. It is also associated with Islam, as it is used in the Quran to refer to the verses of the holy book. In some cultures, ayah is also associated with spirituality and divine guidance.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of ayah include nanny, nursemaid, governess, childminder, babysitter, and au pair.
Antonyms
There are no antonyms for ayah, as it is a specific term that refers to a nursemaid or nanny.
The same root words
The root word “a-y-h” is used in other words in the Arabic language, such as “ayah” meaning a sign or a miracle, “ayyuh” meaning “oh you,” and “ta’ayyun” meaning to distinguish or differentiate.
Example Sentences
- The ayah looked after the children while their parents were at work.
- The Quran contains many ayahs that provide guidance for believers.
- In India, ayahs were employed by European families to look after their children.
- The ayah was a kind and caring nanny who loved the children she looked after.
- The ayah recited a beautiful ayah from the Quran that brought comfort to the family.