name

Kolkata

kol-KAH-tuh

Kolkata (name) means the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, formerly known in English as Calcutta. Example: “Kolkata is famous for its literary and artistic heritage.”

name

The capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, formerly known in English as Calcutta.

"Kolkata is famous for its literary and artistic heritage."

"They took an overnight train from Kolkata to Delhi."

How to use Kolkata

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe major Indian city once called Calcutta in English.

UK vs US

"Calcutta" is the older English name; "Kolkata" is the official name adopted in 2001.

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_____ is famous for its literary and artistic heritage.

Etymology

From Bengali কলকাতা (Kolkata); the exact origin of the name is debated.

Rhymes for Kolkata

ATA kata mata Tata Lata Data Ogata Plata piñata strata sonata Renata

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Kolkata” mean?

The word “Kolkata” means the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal, formerly known in English as Calcutta. In plain terms, the major Indian city once called Calcutta in English.

How do you pronounce “Kolkata”?

“Kolkata” is pronounced kol-KAH-tuh (/kolˈkɑtə/ in IPA).

How do you use “Kolkata” in a sentence?

Here is “Kolkata” used in a sentence: “Kolkata is famous for its literary and artistic heritage.”

What part of speech is “Kolkata”?

“Kolkata” is a name.