The meaning of “myth” in Tamil can be translated in two ways depending on the context:
1. தொன்மம் (thonmam): This is the most direct translation and captures the essence of a myth as a traditional, ancient story. It emphasizes the age and cultural significance of the narrative. It’s used widely in literary and academic contexts.
2. பழங்கதை (pāzhankadhai): This literally translates to “old story” and carries a more informal meaning. It’s commonly used in everyday speech to refer to any traditional tale, regardless of its specific significance or mythological status.
Example:
தொன்மங்கள் நமது கலாச்சாரத்தின் வேர்களாக உள்ளன. (Thonmamgal namathu kalachchāraathin vērkalaaga uḷḷana.) – Myths are the roots of our culture. (Using “thonmam”)
பழங்கதைகளைக் கேட்பது சுவாரஸ்யமானது. (Pāzhankadhaikal ketpathu chuvāraasyamanathu.) – Listening to old stories is interesting. (Using “pāzhankadhai”)
Short myth meaning in tamil:
தொன்மம் – ancient story பழங்கதை – old story