noun
- Plural of kumkum; small containers or vessels, typically made of metal, used in South Asian households for storing water or other liquids.
- Plural of kumkum; red or colored powder (typically vermillion) used in Hindu and South Asian religious rituals and as a cosmetic mark on the forehead.
Usage: Chiefly used in Indian English and South Asian contexts; Often refers to traditional brass or copper vessels
Usage: Cultural and religious context; Also spelled 'kumkum' in singular form
Examples
- The grandmother kept several kumkums in the kitchen for daily water storage.
- During the festival, women applied kumkums to their foreheads as part of the traditional ceremony.
- The antique shop displayed a collection of brass kumkums from the 19th century.
- She purchased kumkums at the temple shop for the upcoming puja.
- The kumkums were arranged neatly on the shelf in the prayer room.