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ataman

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /əˈtɑːmən/

KK: /əˈtɑːmən/

noun
Definition

A leader or chief of the Cossacks, a group of people known for their military skills and unique culture.


Example

The ataman led his troops into battle with great courage and strategy.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you know that the title of ataman was used for Cossack leaders?
Sloth B
Yeah, I read about it in a history book recently.
Sloth A
It's interesting how the role of an ataman was so important to their community.
Sloth B
Definitely! They had to be strong leaders during tough times.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
chief
leader
hetman
Antonyms
follower
subordinate
peasant
Root Explanation

Ataman originates from the Russian word 'атаман' (ataman), meaning a leader or chief, particularly in the context of Cossack communities. The term is derived from the Turkic word 'ataman', which also means chief or leader. It reflects the historical role of a leader among the Cossacks and other groups in Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Memory Tip

Think of a chief or leader in a Cossack community when you hear 'ataman', as it directly refers to someone in a position of authority.

Visually Confused Words
atman
atacaman
vatman
teaman
taxman
tarman
tampan
tamanu
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