Orient
/ˈɔː.ri.ɛnt/noun
The eastern part of the world, especially Asia, historically regarded as exotic and mysterious.
Did you know?In ancient times, the east was seen as the direction of new beginnings, where the sun rises, symbolizing hope and enlightenment.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*h₂or-
“to rise or to become visible, as the sun rises.”
Latin
Latin
orientem
“rising, eastern, from 'oriri' meaning 'to rise'.”
Old French
Old French
orient
“east, the direction of the rising sun.”
Middle English
Middle English
orient
“the East, especially in reference to the exotic lands of Asia.”
Modern English
English
orient
“the eastern world, often with connotations of mystery and allure.”
Explore more surprising origins