Dalan

/ˈdɑːlɑːn/ noun

Definition

A path, road, or way, especially in Indonesian, Malay, or related languages.

Etymology

From Malay dalan meaning road or path, likely related to Sanskrit dala. The word reflects ancient trade routes and the importance of pathways in Southeast Asian geography and culture.

Kelly Says

Many languages preserve ancient Sanskrit roots like this one, showing that Southeast Asian languages were shaped by Indian ocean trade and cultural contact centuries ago—a linguistic trace of the spice routes!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.