Elder Meaning in Bengali

The word “elder” holds significant weight in various cultures worldwide, often carrying connotations of respect, wisdom, and authority. In Bengali culture, this term is equally vital and frequently used in both formal and informal settings. Understanding the meaning and nuances of “elder” in Bengali can offer profound insights into the culture’s values and social structure. This blog post will delve into the meaning of “elder” in Bengali, exploring its various dimensions, including synonyms, antonyms, phrases, and practical applications. Whether you are a language learner, a cultural enthusiast, or someone seeking to connect with Bengali heritage, this comprehensive guide will help you understand the rich tapestry of meaning surrounding “elder” in Bengali.

Table of Contents

The most common translation for “elder” in Bengali is “বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠ” (bôyojyeshtho). This term literally translates to “senior in age” and is used to address or refer to someone older than oneself. It is a respectful way to acknowledge someone’s seniority. Beyond simply signifying age, “বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠ” (bôyojyeshtho) often implies that the person possesses greater experience, wisdom, and a higher social standing.

Another term that can be used is “প্রবীণ” (probīn), which translates to “elderly” or “aged.” This term is typically used for individuals who are significantly older and have reached an advanced stage of life. While “বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠ” (bôyojyeshtho) can be used for anyone older than you, even by a few years, “প্রবীণ” (probīn) suggests a greater degree of seniority.

Elder অর্থ কি?

Elder (এল্ডার) শব্দটির বাংলা অর্থ হল বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠ (বয়োজেষ্ঠ), প্রবীণ (প্রবীণ), জ্যেষ্ঠ (জ্যেষ্ঠ), বা গুরুজন (গুরুজন)। এই শব্দগুলো সাধারণত এমন ব্যক্তিদের ক্ষেত্রে ব্যবহৃত হয় যারা বয়সে বড়, অভিজ্ঞ, এবং সম্মানিত।

বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠ (বয়োজেষ্ঠ): এই শব্দটি আক্ষরিক অর্থে “বয়সে জ্যেষ্ঠ” বোঝায়। এটি এমন একজন ব্যক্তিকে নির্দেশ করে যিনি বয়সে অন্য একজনের চেয়ে বড়।
প্রবীণ (প্রবীণ): এই শব্দটি সাধারণত বয়স্ক এবং প্রাজ্ঞ ব্যক্তিদের ক্ষেত্রে ব্যবহৃত হয়।
জ্যেষ্ঠ (জ্যেষ্ঠ): এই শব্দটি “বড়” বা “অগ্রজ” অর্থে ব্যবহৃত হয় এবং প্রায়শই পরিবারের বড় ভাই বা বোনকে বোঝাতে ব্যবহৃত হয়।
গুরুজন (গুরুজন): এই শব্দটি সম্মানীয় এবং শ্রদ্ধেয় ব্যক্তিদের ক্ষেত্রে ব্যবহৃত হয়, যাদের কাছ থেকে শিক্ষা এবং উপদেশ গ্রহণ করা হয়।

এই শব্দগুলোর মধ্যে কিছু সূক্ষ্ম পার্থক্য রয়েছে, তবে সাধারণভাবে এগুলো সবই “বয়সে বড়” এবং “সম্মানিত” ব্যক্তি বোঝাতে ব্যবহৃত হয়।

Examples

Here are some examples of how these terms are used in sentences:

“তিনি আমার থেকে বয়সে বড়, তাই আমি তাকে বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠ বলে সম্বোধন করি।” (tini amar theke bôyose bôro, tai ami take bôyojyeshtho bole shombhodhon kori) – “He is older than me, so I address him as ‘bôyojyeshtho’.”
“গ্রামের প্রবীণ ব্যক্তিরা সভায় উপস্থিত ছিলেন।” (gramer probīn byaktira shobhay uposthit chilen) – “The elderly people of the village were present at the meeting.”
“আমাদের উচিত আমাদের বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠদের সম্মান করা।” (amader uchit amader bôyojyeshthoder shomman kora) – “We should respect our elders.”
“তিনি একজন প্রবীণ শিক্ষক।” (tini ekjon probīn shikkhok) – “He is an elderly teacher.”
“সমাজের বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠদের পরামর্শ মেনে চলা উচিত।” (shomajer bôyojyeshthoder poramorsho mene chola uchit) – “One should follow the advice of the elders in society.”

Synonyms

There are several synonyms for “elder” in Bengali, each carrying a slightly different nuance:

জ্যেষ্ঠ (jyeshtho): This term emphasizes seniority, often within a family context (e.g., eldest brother).
অগ্রজ (ôgrojo): Similar to “jyeshtho,” this word means “one who is born before” and highlights the order of birth.
গুরুজন (gurujon): This term refers to respected individuals, particularly those who serve as mentors or guides.
মান্যগণ্য (manyogonyo): This word describes individuals who are highly respected and hold positions of authority.
শ্রদ্ধেয় (shroddheyo): This word emphasizes the respect and reverence accorded to elders.

Antonyms

While “elder” focuses on seniority, its antonyms relate to being younger or junior:

কনিষ্ঠ (konishtho): This term means “youngest” or “junior,” often used in a family context.
অনুজ (ônuJo): This word means “one who is born after” and highlights the order of birth.
অল্পবয়স্ক (ôlpoboyoshko): This term simply means “young” or “of a young age.”
যুবক/যুবতী (jubok/juboti): These terms refer to a young man and a young woman, respectively.
শিশু (shishu): This word means “child” and is used for those very young.

Phrases and Idioms

Bengali is rich in phrases and idioms related to elders, reflecting their importance in the culture:

“বয়োজ্যেষ্ঠদের আশীর্বাদ” (bôyojyeshthoder ashirbad): “Blessings of the elders.” This phrase highlights the belief that elders’ blessings bring good fortune and success.
“প্রবীণদের অভিজ্ঞতা অমূল্য” (probīnder oviggotā ômmullo): “The experience of the elderly is invaluable.” This saying emphasizes the wisdom and knowledge that comes with age.
“বড়দের কথা শুনতে হয়” (bôroder kotha shunte hoy): “One must listen to the elders.” This phrase underscores the importance of respecting and obeying one’s seniors.

Uses

The terms for “elder” in Bengali are used in various contexts:

Family: Addressing elder family members with respect and using terms like “দাদা” (dada) for elder brother, “দিদি” (didi) for elder sister, “বাবা” (baba) for father, “মা” (ma) for mother, “ঠাকুরদা” (thakurdada) for paternal grandfather, “ঠাকুমা” (thakuma) for paternal grandmother, “দাদু” (dadu) for maternal grandfather, and “দিদা” (dida) for maternal grandmother.
Social Interactions: Showing deference to older individuals in social settings, offering them seats, and listening attentively to their opinions.
Formal Settings: Using respectful language and titles when addressing seniors in professional or official contexts.
Literature and Media: Depicting characters who embody the values associated with elders, such as wisdom, guidance, and tradition.

Conclusion

Understanding the meaning of “elder” in Bengali goes beyond mere translation. It provides a window into the values of respect, wisdom, and authority that are deeply ingrained in Bengali culture. The terms discussed in this post, along with their synonyms, antonyms, and associated phrases, reflect the multifaceted role of elders in Bengali society. By appreciating these nuances, we can gain a deeper understanding of the language and the rich cultural tapestry it represents. Whether you are a language learner or simply curious about Bengali culture, exploring the meaning of “elder” is a journey into the heart of a society that values experience, wisdom, and the enduring bonds of family and community.