KAVASS Meaning and
Definition
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Kavass, referring to a historical term, is defined as a guardian or an attendant in various Eastern countries, especially in the Ottoman Empire. The word is derived from the Turkish term "kavas" meaning "servant" or "footman." A kavass typically served as a personal bodyguard, messenger, or protocol officer to high-ranking officials, diplomats, or members of the ruling class.
In the context of the Ottoman Empire, the kavasses were an integral part of the palace bureaucracy, responsible for maintaining order, security, and carrying out various administrative tasks. They were easily distinguished by their distinctive uniforms and the ceremonial staves they carried as symbols of their authority. Kavasses were known for their loyalty, discipline, and the strict adherence to the code of conduct set by their masters.
Apart from their administrative duties, kavasses also played a crucial role in diplomatic missions, accompanying foreign dignitaries and diplomats to ensure their safety and to provide assistance as required. They acted as intermediaries for communication and negotiation, conveying messages between parties and providing a sense of official representation.
With the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the modernization of Eastern societies, the position of kavass gradually became obsolete, being replaced by modern security and administrative systems. However, the term still holds historical significance and is often used in historical or cultural contexts to refer to these loyal and devoted attendants who served the ruling elite in the bygone eras.
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In Turkey, an armed constable or policeman.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for KAVASS
- javass
- mavass
- lavass
- oavass
- iavass
- kzvass
- ksvass
- kwvass
- kqvass
- kacass
- kabass
- kagass
- kafass
- kavzss
- kavsss
- kavwss
- kavqss
- kavaas
- kavazs
Etymology of KAVASS
The word "kavass" originates from the Ottoman Turkish language. In Ottoman Turkish, the term "kavas" (later modified as "kavass") referred to a guard or a servant who performed specific tasks, often serving as a messenger, a doorkeeper, or an escort for an official or a military officer. The word itself has its roots in the Arabic term "qawwās", which also meant a guard or messenger. Over time, the word "kavass" was adopted by several European languages, including English, and it retained its meaning as a servant or guard.
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