savarna

English

Etymology

From Hindi सवर्ण (savarṇ), derived from Sanskrit सवर्ण (savarṇa, same colour, same caste).

Noun

savarna (plural savarnas)

  1. (India, Hinduism) A member of the Savarna gotra (lineage) of the Brahmin caste.

Adjective

savarna (not comparable)

  1. (India, Hinduism) From the four varnas (social castes) in Hinduism.

Antonyms

  • avarna (outside the Indian caste system)
  • Dalit (poorer castes)

Usage notes

The term "savarna" is used by Dalit activists towards Indians from the four social castes, especially members of privileged and upper castes.