Bombay
Definition
Proper noun * A major city in India: Bombay is a large coastal city in western India, on the shores of the Arabian Sea. It is a major financial, commercial, and entertainment center. Historically, it was India's primary western seaport, noted for its natural deep-water harbor.
Usage Notes
- "Bombay" is the former colonial name for the city. In 1995, the official name was changed to Mumbai. While "Mumbai" is now the official and preferred name in most contexts, "Bombay" is still used historically, in certain institutional names (e.g., Bombay Stock Exchange), and sometimes colloquially.
- As a proper noun, it is always capitalized.
Examples
- Proper noun:
- Many films from the Indian cinema industry are produced in Bombay.
- The Gateway of India is a famous monument in Bombay.
- She traveled from Delhi to Bombay for business.
Advanced Usage
- In historical or institutional contexts: The name "Bombay" often appears when referring to the city's past or to established institutions that retain the name.
- The Bombay Presidency was an administrative subdivision of British India.
- He studied at the University of Bombay.
Variants and Related Words
- Mumbai (proper noun): The current official name for the city.
- Mumbai is the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra.
- Bombayite (noun, dated): A native or inhabitant of Bombay (Mumbai).
- Bombay Duck (noun): A type of dried fish, not a duck, that is a regional delicacy.
Synonyms
- Mumbai: The modern synonym and official name.
Related Terms and Phrases
- Bollywood: The informal term for the Hindi-language film industry based in Mumbai (Bombay). The name is a portmanteau of "Bombay" and "Hollywood."
- Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE): One of Asia's oldest and India's leading stock exchanges, located in Mumbai.
Noun
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a city in western India just off the coast of the Arabian Sea; India's 2nd largest city (after Calcutta); has the only natural deep-water harbor in western India