kirpan

[ kir-pahn ]

noun

1. a small dagger worn by orthodox Sikhs.

Kirpan

/ kɪrˈpɑːn /

noun

1. See five Ks
   the short sword traditionally carried by Sikhs as a symbol of their religious and cultural loyalty, symbolizing protection for the weak See also five Ks

Word History and Origins

Origin of kirpan¹

1900–05; < Punjabi and Hindi < Sanskrit kṛpāṇa sword

Word History and Origins

Origin of kirpan¹

Punjabi kirpān

Example Sentences

On his belt, along with his pistol, he wore the little kirpan, the dagger all Sikhs carry.

From Project Gutenberg

After all, a kirpan was a sidearm, and his religion required him to carry that.

From Project Gutenberg