Calcutta

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Definition
  1. Proper noun:
    • A major city in India: Calcutta is the largest city in India and one of the largest cities in the world. It is located in eastern India and is known for its historical, cultural, and commercial significance.
Usage
  • As a proper noun (name of a place):
    • Calcutta is used to refer specifically to the Indian metropolis. It is the official name for the city, though the name "Kolkata" is also now officially used.
    • Example: She was born in Calcutta.
    • Example: The port of Calcutta is vital for trade.
Advanced Usage
  • Historical and cultural context: The name "Calcutta" is often used in historical, literary, and colonial contexts.
    • Example: The British established their East India Company headquarters in Calcutta.
  • In discussions of urban challenges: The city is frequently cited in discussions of urban poverty and density.
    • Example: The documentary highlighted the overcrowding in Calcutta.
Variants and Related Words
  • Kolkata: The Bengali name and the official name for the city since 2001. It refers to the same geographical entity.
    • Example: Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is the capital of West Bengal.
Synonyms
  • Kolkata: The modern official name for the city.
  • The City of Joy: A nickname for Calcutta/Kolkata, popularized by a book and film, referencing the spirit of its people despite hardships.
Related Phrases and Contexts
  • "Calcutta auction": A specific type of gambling pool or auction, named after the city where it was popularized in the context of horse racing or other contests.
    • Example: They organized a Calcutta auction for the golf tournament.
  • "Streets of Calcutta": A phrase often used metaphorically to evoke images of extreme poverty, crowds, or vibrant chaos.
    • Example: After the festival, the market looked like the streets of Calcutta.
Noun
  1. the largest city in India and one of the largest cities in the world; located in eastern India; suffers from poverty and overcrowding