"Indian fig tree," 1630s, so called in reference to a tree on the Iranian coast of the Persian Gulf under which the Hindu merchants known as banians had built a pagoda. From Sanskrit vanija [..]

type of fig tree with roots that spread over a wide area and form more trunks.

(n) East Indian tree that puts out aerial shoots that grow down into the soil forming additional trunks(n) a loose fitting jacket; originally worn in India

A Hindû shopkeeper. In Bengal it denotes a native who manages the money concerns of a European, and also serves as an interpreter. In Madras such an agent is called Dubash (i.e. one who can speak two [..]

A Banyan is barbecue or party, usually with steaks and beer. The term is derived from banian, a garment worn by an East Indian sect who neither kills nor eats meat. In the 18th century, the British na [..]

Traditional Royal Navy term for a day or shorter period of rest and relaxation.

Traditional Royal Navy term for a day or shorter period of rest and relaxation.

PARTY An old Naval name for a picnic party, especially nowadays by bus. The word "Banyan" originates from the time when, as an economy, meat was not issued on Mondays, Wednesdays or [..]

Traditional Royal Navy term for a day or shorter period of rest and relaxation.

(RCN/UK) A barbecue or party on the flight deck, usually with steaks and beer. The term is derived from 'banian', a garment worn by an East Indian sect which neither kills nor eats meat (� [..]

, sb. a flannel jacket worn by Carlingford oystermen and fishermen.