खुला
khulā
/ˈkʰʊ.lɑː/
Definition
Open, not closed or covered; also used to mean free, spacious, or unrestricted.
Example
दरवाज़ा खुला है, अंदर आ जाओ।
Show translation
The door is open, come on in.
Etymology
From Sanskrit *khull* (to open, to be loose), via Prakrit. Related to the Hindi verb खुलना (khulnā, "to open/be opened"), which itself derives from the causative root खोलना (kholnā, "to open something"). The Proto-Indo-Aryan root connects to notions of expansion and release.
Cultural note
खुला carries a rich metaphorical life in Hindi beyond its literal sense. खुले दिल से (khule dil se) means "wholeheartedly / with an open heart," a very common expression of generosity or frankness. खुला आसमान (khulā āsmān) — "open sky" — evokes freedom and is a recurring image in Hindi poetry and film songs. Be careful not to confuse खुला (open/already-opened, a state) with खोलो (imperative: open it!) — Hindi distinguishes the resultant state from the action.