mandapa

Definition

A pillared hall or porch fronting a Hindu temple. It may be attached or detached from the building.

Etymology

Borrowed from Sanskrit मण्डप (maṇḍapa), मण्टप (maṇṭapa, “pavilion, mandapa”), a non-native word likely from the same source as मठ (maṭha, “hut, hermit's cottage”). Probably derived via Hindi मंडप (maṇḍap) or another New Indo-Aryan language.

Example Sentences

• "She led the way inside the house to the mandap."
• "When she takes her place next to Lakshaya at the wedding mandap, both of them smile at each other."