PUNKA Meaning and
Definition
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Punka refers to a type of fan or ventilation system commonly found in tropical regions. It consists of a large mechanical or manual fan mounted on the ceiling and is used to create air movement and provide relief from high temperatures or humidity. The punka, also known as punkah, is typically made of a long piece of cloth or fan-shaped blades attached to a frame, which is suspended from the ceiling. The cloth or blades are typically operated by pulling a cord or using a motor to create a back-and-forth, oscillating motion.
The main purpose of a punka is to circulate air and create a gentle breeze in a room. This helps to cool down the space and provide comfort to individuals within it. The airflow generated by the punka can also help to keep insects and pests away. Punkas are commonly used in homes, hotels, restaurants, and other establishments in hot and humid climates, particularly in regions such as South Asia and Southeast Asia.
Historically, punkas have been used for centuries and were originally operated manually by trained individuals known as punkawallahs. These individuals would pull the cords attached to the punkas to create the desired movement. However, with the advent of modern technology, many punkas are now automated and connected to electrical systems for convenience. Despite advances in air conditioning technology, punkas remain popular in many traditional and heritage buildings, as they provide a unique and aesthetic appeal while also serving their functional purpose.
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In the East Indies, a large fan or machine used for cooling the atmosphere in rooms, kept in motion by pulling a cord.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PUNKA
- ponka
- ponke
- punca
- -punkah
- punkahh
- punke
- ounka
- lunka
- 0unka
- pynka
- phnka
- pjnka
- p8nka
- p7nka
- punla
- punoa
- opunka
- pounka
- lpunka
- plunka
Etymology of PUNKA
The word "punka" is derived from the Hindi word "paṅkha", which means "fan" or "a device used to create a breeze". It was borrowed into English during the British Raj in India during the 18th and 19th centuries when British officials and colonizers encountered the indigenous Indian cooling system known as the "punkah". A punkah consisted of a large cloth or a series of cloth fans suspended from the ceiling or a frame, which were manually operated to create a refreshing breeze by a puller or a servant. As the concept of punkahs was introduced to the English-speaking world, the term "punka" was adopted to refer to this unique cooling apparatus.
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