Definition of the word oriental

The word "oriental" initially had a geographic meaning, referring to places located in the eastern part of the world, specifically the regions that rose with the sun during the Mediterranean winter, which literarily translates to "orient" in Latin. This term was used to describe places like Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa. The word's origin can be traced back to the 14th century, when the term "Levante" was used in medieval Europe to refer to the winds that blew from the east during winter, bringing the first rays of sunlight. From this, the word "Orient" was used to describe the rising sun and, by extension, the regions where it rose in wintertime: the Orient, or the East. Over time, the term "oriental" came to have a cultural meaning as well, beyond its geographical significance. The term, in this sense, described a broad grouping of art, culture, religion, and society, which came to include traditional practices like calligraphy, painting, music, and cuisine from various Eastern societies. However, in recent times, the term "oriental" has been criticized for its colonial and essentialist undertones, and many scholars and linguists discourage its use, preferring more specific and culturally sensitive terminology when referring to places and cultures. For instance, "Asian" or "Middle Eastern" may be more appropriate designations depending on the context.