pagoda
UK[pəˈɡəʊdə]US[pəˈɡoʊdə]
n
a religious building of east asia, typically a many‑tiered tower with upward‑curving eaves, often associated with buddhism.
Etymology
the word 'pagoda' entered english in the late 16th century from portuguese 'pagode', which itself likely derived from a persian or dravidian source. the most probable origin is the persian 'butkada', a compound meaning 'idol temple' (from 'but', idol, and 'kada', temple). this term was transmitted via indian languages and portuguese traders who encountered the structures in asia. the word's journey reflects the european encounter with asian architecture, solidifying in english to denote the distinct, tiered tower common in china, japan, and other parts of east asia, regardless of its specific linguistic roots.
Analysis
this word is a loanword into english and cannot be meaningfully segmented into morphemes based on its current english spelling.
Examples
the ancient pagoda stood serenely on the hill overlooking the village.
visitors often toss coins into the fountain in front of the seven‑story pagoda for good luck.
its design was inspired by the traditional buddhist pagodas of southeast asia.