What does the swastika mean?

Pronunciation

/swɔːstɪkə/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A symbol with a complex and controversial history, originating in ancient cultures as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, but later adopted by the Nazi Party as a symbol of racism, anti-Semitism, and hatred.

Examples

• The historian discussed the origins and evolution of the swastika symbol.
• The museum exhibit featured artifacts from ancient cultures that used the swastika as a symbol of good fortune.

Synonyms

• Hakenkreuz
• Fylfot

Antonyms

• Pacifism
• Inclusivity

Additional Information

The swastika has a complex and controversial history, with its meaning and significance varying across cultures and time. In ancient cultures, it was a symbol of good fortune and prosperity, but its adoption by the Nazi Party in the 20th century associated it with racism, anti-Semitism, and hatred.

In modern times, the swastika is often viewed as a symbol of hate and is banned in many countries. However, it is still used in some Eastern religions and cultures as a symbol of spirituality and harmony.

Etymology

The word “swastika” comes from the Sanskrit word “svastika,” meaning “well-being” or “good fortune.”

Usage Notes

When using the term “swastika,” it is essential to consider the context and potential connotations. In academic or historical contexts, the term may be used to describe the symbol’s origins and evolution. However, in casual conversation, it is often avoided due to its controversial associations.

Cultural References

• The swastika appears in ancient Hindu and Buddhist texts as a symbol of good fortune.
• In modern times, the swastika has been featured in films and literature as a symbol of hate and intolerance.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

• The phrase “heil swastika” was used by the Nazi Party as a greeting.

Related Words or Phrases

• Nazi symbolism
• Hate symbol

Collocations

• swastika symbol
• swastika flag

Frequency of Use

The term “swastika” is relatively rare in modern conversation, due to its controversial associations.