# Persian

/ˈpɝʒən/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/persian
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. relating to Persia

adjective · CEFR B1

relating to the history, people, or culture of the region formerly known as Persia.

For teachers: pertaining to the historical region of Persia, its inhabitants, or its cultural output.

- The museum has a beautiful collection of ancient Persian carpets.
- The exhibition focused on the intricate craftsmanship of Persian miniatures produced during the Safavid dynasty.

### 2. the language

noun · CEFR B1

the language spoken in Iran, Afghanistan, and Tajikistan.

For teachers: the Western Iranian language of the Indo-European family, also known as Farsi, Dari, or Tajik depending on the region.

- She is learning to read Persian so she can enjoy classical poetry.
- Modern Persian has evolved significantly since the classical period, yet the literary works of Rumi remain accessible to contemporary speakers.

### 3. a person

noun · CEFR B1

a person from the historical region of Persia or a member of the Persian ethnic group.

For teachers: a member of the ethnic group indigenous to the Iranian plateau; historically, a subject of the Persian Empire.

- The ancient Persians built a massive empire that stretched across many lands.
- Many Persians living abroad maintain strong cultural ties to their ancestral traditions, particularly during the New Year celebrations.

### 4. a cat breed

noun · CEFR B2

a popular breed of cat with long, thick hair and a flat face.

For teachers: a long-haired breed of domestic cat characterised by its round face and shortened muzzle.

- The white Persian sat quietly on the sofa, grooming its long fur.
- While Persians are prized for their elegant appearance, the breed often requires daily grooming to prevent their dense coats from matting.

### 5. architectural figure

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical

a statue of a man used like a pillar to hold up a roof or ceiling.

For teachers: a male figure used as a supporting column to hold up an entablature, similar to a caryatid.

- The old building featured a row of stone Persians supporting the balcony.
- The architect opted for classical Persians instead of standard columns to give the facade a more dramatic, sculptural quality.

## Examples

- She is learning to speak Persian.
- The museum features a stunning collection of ancient Persian carpets known for their intricate patterns and vibrant dyes.
- Scholars often distinguish between Old Persian and the modern Farsi dialect, noting how the language has evolved over millennia while maintaining its distinct poetic traditions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.