toran

noun

to·​ran

ˈtōrən

variants or torana

-nə

plural -s

1

: a gateway commonly of wood but sometimes of stone consisting of two upright pillars carrying one to three transverse lintels that is often minutely carved with symbolic sculpture and serves as a monumental approach to a Buddhist temple in India

2

: a temporary arch or festoon erected in honor of a visiting dignitary in India compare pai-lou, torii

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit toraṇa

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