DIVAN

divan

(noun) a long backless sofa (usually with pillows against a wall)

divan, diwan

(noun) a Muslim council chamber or law court

divan, diwan

(noun) a collection of Persian or Arabic poems (usually by one author)

divan, diwan

(noun) a Muslim council of state

Source: WordNet® 3.1

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Etymology

Noun

divan (plural divans)

(now, historical) A Muslim council of state, specifically that of viziers of the Ottoman Empire that discussed and recommended new laws and law changes to a higher authority (the sultan).

The council chamber where this court is held; (by extension), any court of justice.

(now, rare) Any council or assembly.

A couch- or sofa-like piece of furniture made of a mattress lying against the wall and either on the floor or an elevated structure.

A smoking-room.

A collection of poems, especially one written by one author in Arabic or Persian.

Anagrams

• Davin, Navid, viand

Source: Wiktionary

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Di*van", n. Etym: [Per. diwan a book of many leaves, an account book, a collection of books, a senate, council: cf. Ar. daiwan, F. divan.]

1. A book; esp., a collection of poems written by one author; as, the divan of Hafiz. [Persia]

2. In Turkey and other Oriental countries: A council of state; a royal court. Also used by the poets for a grand deliberative council or assembly. Pope.

3. A chief officer of state. [India]

4. A saloon or hall where a council is held, in Oriental countries, the state reception room in places, and in the houses of the richer citizens. Cushions on the floor or on benches are ranged round the room.

5. A cushioned seat, or a large, low sofa or couch; especially, one fixed to its place, and not movable.

6. A coffee and smoking saloon. [Colloq.]

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition

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