granth: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (primarily within religious/Sikh contexts and South Asian diaspora communities)Formal, religious, academic
Quick answer
What does “granth” mean?
A term for a sacred book or scripture in Sikhism, most notably referring to the central religious text, the Guru Granth Sahib.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A term for a sacred book or scripture in Sikhism, most notably referring to the central religious text, the Guru Granth Sahib.
May be used more broadly, though rarely, to refer to any important or weighty book, especially one of religious or scholarly significance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage. Recognition may be slightly higher in the UK due to a larger Sikh population.
Connotations
Exclusively carries religious and cultural connotations related to Sikhism.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general discourse in both regions. Usage is confined to specific communities and academic/religious discussions.
Grammar
How to Use “granth” in a Sentence
The [adjective] granthto recite from the granthto place the granth on a takht (throne)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “granth” in a Sentence
noun
British English
- The granth is treated with the utmost respect in the gurdwara.
- Scholars studied the historical granths of the Punjab region.
American English
- The Guru Granth Sahib is the central granth of Sikhism.
- He conducted research on several lesser-known granths.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used.
Academic
Used in religious studies, theology, and South Asian studies contexts.
Everyday
Used almost exclusively by Sikhs and those familiar with Sikhism.
Technical
Used in precise theological discussion of Sikhism.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “granth”
- Using 'granth' as a common noun for any book.
- Mispronouncing it to rhyme with 'month' (/ɡrænθ/). The correct pronunciation rhymes with 'grunt'.
- Omitting the honorific 'Guru' or 'Sahib' when referring to the primary scripture.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a specialized term borrowed from Punjabi, used almost exclusively in the context of Sikhism.
When referring to the primary scripture, it is more respectful and precise to use its full title, 'Guru Granth Sahib' or 'the Guru Granth Sahib'.
It carries profound religious significance, implying a scripture that is revered as a living spiritual guide, not just an informational text.
Yes, in historical and scholarly contexts, the term can refer to other Sikh scriptures like the Dasam Granth, but for most Sikhs, 'the Granth' implies the Guru Granth Sahib.
A term for a sacred book or scripture in Sikhism, most notably referring to the central religious text, the Guru Granth Sahib.
Granth is usually formal, religious, academic in register.
Granth: in British English it is pronounced /ɡrʌnt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ɡrʌnt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To take a hukam (command) from the Granth (to seek guidance by randomly opening the scripture).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a GRANT of divine wisdom contained in a book – a GRANTH.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE LIVING GURU (The Guru Granth Sahib is metaphorically considered the eternal guru/teacher of the Sikhs).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary context for the English word 'granth'?