kirpan

[kir-pahn]

noun

1. a small dagger worn by orthodox Sikhs.

Kirpan

/ kɪrˈpɑːn /

noun

1. 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

He then picked up an ornamental miniature sword and arrow, known as a kirpan and teer to Sikhs, and threatened to kill the guards as they tried to detain him.

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Thursday’s instance was not the first time a Sikh student had run into temporary trouble on a college campus over their kirpan.

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Removing the kirpan is a serious matter for Sikhs.

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The Sikh men who go into the chamber with their kirpan.

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Even before the law passed, the Quebec government had banned several Sikhs from entering the Quebec legislature with small ceremonial daggers, or kirpans, under their clothing.

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