etymology.today
21.07.2025 | see previous words
ك
ُ
ر
ْ
س
ِ
ي
ّ
"kursī"
Arabic
> DEFINITION:
A chair or seat.
> ETYMOLOGY:
Origin: The word 'كُرْسِيّ' (kursī) originates from Arabic, derived from the root k-r-s which relates to sitting or being seated. It is believed to have possibly influenced the Greek word 'kathisma' meaning seat or chair.Historical and Cultural Context: The term 'كُرْسِيّ' is deeply embedded in Arabic culture, frequently used in various contexts from everyday life to literature and religious texts. Its earliest attestations appear in pre-Islamic poetry where it symbolized authority and governance.Evolution: Over time, the word maintained its core meaning but gained additional connotations in Islamic texts, referring to a divine throne or seat of power, known as 'Al-Kursi'. This reflects a semantic shift from a physical object to a symbol of authority.Modern Relevance: In modern Arabic, 'كُرْسِيّ' still means chair but is also used metaphorically to signify positions of power or influence, such as a political seat. It remains a common term in everyday language.
> FUN_FACT:
The term 'كُرْسِيّ' is also used in the famous Ayat al-Kursi, a verse in the Quran that describes God's sovereign power and knowledge.

SYSTEM READY