lotus
UK[ˈləʊtəs]US[ˈloʊtəs]
n
a type of tropical water lily with large, flat, floating leaves and white, pink, or yellow flowers.
n
(in greek mythology) a fruit that induces a state of lazy forgetfulness in those who eat it.
n
(also lotus position) a cross-legged position for meditation, with the feet resting on the thighs.
Etymology
the word 'lotus' has a long journey through languages and cultures. it originates from a mediterranean and near eastern term for various plants, entering english via latin from ancient greek 'lōtos'. the greeks used the name for several distinct plants, including a mythical forgetfulness-inducing plant and the water lily known today. this semantic blending in classical sources led to the modern english word carrying multiple, layered meanings: a specific aquatic plant, a mythological symbol of oblivion, and, by extension, the name for a meditative sitting posture inspired by the flower's iconic form.
Analysis
the word 'lotus' is a simplex loanword. it entered english from latin 'lōtus', which was borrowed from greek 'lōtos'. the greek term likely originated from a semitic source (e.g., hebrew 'lōṭ' or arabic 'lōṭā').
Examples
the serene pond was dotted with beautiful pink lotus flowers.
in homer's odyssey, the lotus-eaters offered a fruit that made men forget their homeland.
she sat in the lotus position, focusing on her breath during meditation.