[Facts] Re: Name HIMANI
in reply to a message by christiane
Yes, the word hima (cognate with Greek χειμών) means frost or cold, and is attested in the oldest literature. It is often used for snow. The feminine suffix -AnI often makes a collective noun, as well, so himAnI means a mass of snow. On the other hand, lI means to lie or recline, as well as to stick (ri/li also means to dissolve, which may be a separate verb). The prefix A- usually indicates nearness of direction, and A-Ii means come near, and A-lI + -a = AlaYa means place of repose or house. So, himAlaYa means house of snow.