Background for divan

divan

/dɪˈvæn/

Illustration divan - Image 1

noun

A Muslim council of state, specifically that of viziers of the Ottoman Empire that discussed and recommended new laws and law changes to a higher authority (the sultan).

Examples :

"During the Ottoman Empire, important decisions about the country were often debated within the divan before being presented to the Sultan. "

politics government history organization state law royal

Illustration divan - Image 1

noun

The council chamber where this court is held; (by extension), any court of justice.

Examples :

"Within the divan, the judge listened patiently to both sides of the argument before delivering his verdict. "

politics government law building

Illustration divan - Image 1

noun

Any council or assembly.

Examples :

"The school principal addressed the student divan to discuss upcoming events and gather their input. "

politics government organization

Illustration divan - Image 1

noun

A couch- or sofa-like piece of furniture made of a mattress lying against the wall and either on the floor or an elevated structure.

Examples :

"After a long day, she liked to relax on the divan with a good book and a cup of tea. "

Illustration divan - Image 1

noun

A smoking-room.

Examples :

"After school, my grandfather liked to relax in the divan in his smoking room. "

architecture culture building style

Illustration divan - Image 1

noun

A collection of poems, especially one written by one author in Arabic or Persian.

Examples :

"The scholar spent years translating the ancient Persian divan, revealing the beautiful and complex emotions of the poet. "

literature culture writing