bhishti

/ ˈbiːstɪ /

noun

1. (formerly in India) a water-carrier

Word History and Origins

Origin of bhishti¹

C18: from Hindi bhīstī , from Persian bihishtī heavenly one, from bihisht paradise

Example Sentences

The story of the Bhishti obtaining his name on account of the solace which he afforded to the Muhammadan soldiery finds a parallel in the case of the English army: The uniform ’e wore Was nothin’ much before, An’ rather less than ’arf o’ that be’ind, For a piece o’ twisty rag An’ a goatskin water-bag Was all the field-equipment ’e could find.

From Project Gutenberg

I like the Bhishti and respect him.

From Project Gutenberg

Bhishti.—A small Muhammadan caste of water-bearers.

From Project Gutenberg

The traditional occupation of the Bhishti is to supply water, and he is still engaged in this and other kinds of domestic service.

From Project Gutenberg

The leather bag is a distinctive sign of the Bhishti, but when he puts it away he may be recognised from the piece of red cloth which he usually wears round his waist.

From Project Gutenberg