Lingayat

[ ling-gah-yit ]

noun

, Hinduism.

1. a member of the Lingayata cult.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Lingayat¹

1665–75; < Kannada lingāyata; lingam

Example Sentences

Signs of that limited dividend were clear at the Shree Siddagangaa Mutt, a major temple institution of the Lingayat caste, a strong support base for the B.J.P., in the city of Tumkur.

From New York Times

But in a demonstration of how caste allegiance in Karnataka does not necessarily translate into support for exclusionary politics, a majority of the 10,000 students at the schools and colleges that the Lingayat institution runs are from other castes and religions.

From New York Times

The dominant Lingayat community comprises 17% of the population and influences the outcome in nearly 100 seats.

From Seattle Times

The powerful Lingayat community, a Hindu sect that comprises 17% of the state's population, was expected to play a decisive role in the elections.

From BBC

The powerful Lingayat community, a Hindu sect that comprises 17% of the state's population, is expected to play a decisive role in the elections.

From BBC