Definition

Proper noun: * A major city in India: Kolkata is the capital city of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is a major port and one of the largest urban areas in India and the world, historically known as Calcutta.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Kolkata is famous for its rich cultural heritage and historical architecture.
  • She traveled to Kolkata to visit the Victoria Memorial.
  • The Howrah Bridge is an iconic landmark in Kolkata.

Advanced Usage

• "Kolkata" vs. "Calcutta": The city's official English name was changed from "Calcutta" to "Kolkata" in 2001. "Kolkata" reflects the Bengali pronunciation. Both names are still used and understood, with "Kolkata" being the preferred official and contemporary term.
  • The author writes about life in Kolkata, a city formerly known as Calcutta.

Variants and Related Words

• Calcuttan (adj, n): Of or relating to Kolkata; a person from Kolkata. (This term is based on the former name "Calcutta" but is still in use).
  • The Calcuttan tradition of Durga Puja is world-renowned.
• Kolkatan (adj, n): Of or relating to Kolkata; a person from Kolkata. (This is the modern demonym).
  • Kolkatan artists contributed greatly to the Bengal Renaissance.

Synonyms

• Calcutta: The former official English name for the city.
• City of Joy: A common nickname for Kolkata, popularized by a book and film.

Related Phrases

• Greater Kolkata: Refers to the larger metropolitan area surrounding the city proper.
  • The population of Greater Kolkata exceeds 14 million people.

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