A marketplace or shopping quarter, especially one in the Middle East.

Origin: The word 'بازار' (bazaar) originated from the Middle Persian 'wāzār', which referred to a market or trade. The Old Persian form is 'vāčara', which shares its roots with the Avestan 'vāza', meaning 'to sell'. This term eventually passed into Arabic and later into many European languages during the Middle Ages.
Historical and Cultural Context: The bazaar has been a staple of Middle Eastern culture for centuries, serving as a hub of commerce, social interaction, and cultural exchange. The first recorded use in English was in the 16th century, reflecting the growing influence of Middle Eastern trade on Europe.
Evolution: Over time, the concept of a bazaar expanded beyond its Persian origins, becoming integral to the commercial and social fabric of many cultures, particularly in Asia and North Africa. It often denotes a covered market or a district where goods are sold.
Modern Relevance: Today, bazaars are not only found in traditional settings but also in modern urban environments, often symbolizing a vibrant, bustling area of commerce. The word has been adopted into numerous languages, illustrating its global reach.

The Grand Bazaar in Istanbul, Turkey, is one of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, featuring over 4,000 shops and attracting more than 91 million visitors annually.