langar
Low (C1/C2)Religious/Cultural, occasionally Academic, Specialist
Definition
Meaning
A community kitchen or free food service, specifically within Sikhism, where a vegetarian meal is served to all visitors regardless of background.
Can refer more broadly to the concept of a free communal meal and the practice of equality and selfless service, which extends beyond physical food distribution.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Langar is primarily a religious/cultural term. It denotes not just the food but the entire tradition of seva (selfless service) and equality. Its meaning is inseparable from the Sikh religious context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
More common in the UK due to larger Sikh communities; in the US, it may require explanation in general contexts. Spelling is consistent.
Connotations
In both varieties, the word is associated with Sikhism, charity, and community. In the UK, especially in areas with significant Sikh populations, it has broader cultural recognition.
Frequency
Higher frequency in the UK, particularly in multicultural or religious discourse.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[The] Gurdwara [verb] langar for [recipients].[Recipients] [verb] langar at [location].Langar is [verb] [by agent].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The spirit of langar (meaning: the ethos of equality and selfless service)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in religious studies, sociology, and anthropology when discussing Sikhism, community practices, or food security.
Everyday
Primarily used by Sikhs or people familiar with Sikh culture. In general conversation, it often requires explanation.
Technical
A precise term in Sikh theology and practice, denoting one of the key institutions of the faith.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- We ate a delicious meal at the langar after visiting the temple.
- The principle of langar, where everyone sits together regardless of social status, is central to Sikh teaching.
- Anthropological studies often cite the Sikh langar as a powerful example of a community ritual that actively dismantles social hierarchies through commensality.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'LANGAR feeds a LARGE congregation.' Both share the 'LAR' sound.
Conceptual Metaphor
LANGAR IS A LIVING SYMBOL OF EQUALITY (as all sit on the floor and eat the same food).
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid direct translation. "Лангар" is a transliteration, not a Russian word. Do not confuse with "лангуст" (lobster) or "лангута" (loitering).
Common Mistakes
- Using it as a general term for any free meal (it is specifically Sikh).
- Capitalising it incorrectly (not a proper noun, but often treated as one).
- Pronouncing it with a hard 'g' as in 'golf' (it's /ɡ/ as in 'go').
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary purpose of a langar in Sikhism?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, langar is open to people of all faiths and backgrounds without any distinction.
Langar food is always vegetarian to respect the dietary restrictions of all visitors.
No, langar is completely free. It is funded by community donations and served by volunteers.
While both provide free food, 'langar' is a specific religious institution central to Sikh practice, emphasizing equality, service (seva), and community. A 'soup kitchen' is a general, often secular term for charity food provision.