tatpurusha

noun

tat·​pur·​u·​sha

tatˈpu̇rəshə,

ˌtət-

plural -s

1

: a class of compound words having as first constituent a noun or noun stem that modifies the second constituent by standing in the relation to it of possessor (as in sheepskin), thing possessed (as in motorboat), object of action (as in shoemaker), location or habitat (as in tree toad), agent (as in man-made), instrument (as in landlocked), or any of numerous other relations

2

: a compound word belonging to the tatpurusha class see dependent entry 1 sense 2f

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit tatpuruṣa, literally, his servant (a compound of this type), from tad-, tat- that one (from tad, neuter demonstrative pronoun) + puruṣa man, servant

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now