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Glite Dictionary
🐉 A sea monster ♑ Capricorn sign 🧑‍🔬 A surname
makara

makara

9.9
A sea creature from Hindu and Buddhist stories with parts of different animals
  • noun
  • Literature
translation icon : makara
  • The ancient sculpture features a makara with the body of a fish and the trunk of an elephant.

Examples

  • In many temples, the entrance is guarded by a carved makara symbolizing protection.

  • Artists often depict the makara as a combination of aquatic and terrestrial animals in traditional art.

  • The makara is a fascinating creature in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions.

  • In Hindu mythology, the makara is often seen as a guardian of water.

  • The ancient sculpture features a makara with the body of a fish and the trunk of an elephant.

  • In Hindu mythology, the makara is often depicted as a guardian of waters, protecting sacred rivers.

  • Many artists illustrate the makara in their works, showcasing its unique blend of animal features.

Synonyms

sea serpent
vsmakara
  • Literature
3 9.5

A large sea creature like a snake from old stories

is a composite water monster showing mixed animal features in religious art

Surface Forms

makara singular
makaras plural

Etymology

Makara comes from the Sanskrit word makara, which means 'sea creature' or sometimes 'crocodile'. In South Asian art the word became the name for a mixed water monster, so a makara is the carved creature with fish, elephant, or crocodile parts that often guards temples.