"Purdah" Pronounce,Meaning And Examples

"Purdah" Meaning

Purdah is a Hindi-Urdu word that means "curtain". In its broader sense, it refers to a state of seclusion or concealment, often referring to the segregation of women from the public sphere, especially in South Asian cultures. In Indian and Pakistani cultural contexts, the term "purdah" often implies the practice of women covering their faces or bodies, or the seclusion of women from public view to maintain their modesty or protect their dignity.

"Purdah" Examples

Verb: Purdah

1. Social or cultural context

In some conservative Muslim societies, the government has instituted purdah rules for girls in schools to encourage female modesty.

2. Political context

Before the recent election campaign, the administration implemented a period of full purdah for all government officers except those necessary for the smooth functioning of essential services.

3. Literary or historical context

In traditional Indian and Islamic societies, women would observe purdah, living in a section of the house separated from the rest by a curtain.

4. Cultural customs

The village elder reminded the newly married woman to maintain purdah and cover herself absolutely from head to foot while stepping out in public.

5. Social behavior

She would often say hello to her male neighbors but maintain a strict purdah and avoid eye contact.

Note: Purdah generally refers to the practice of secluding women from public view, often in some traditional and conservative cultures, especially in South Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa.