OPEN SESAME Meaning and
Definition
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"Open sesame" is a phrase originating from the classic tale of "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves" in the collection of stories known as "One Thousand and One Nights." This phrase has acquired a metaphorical meaning over time.
Literally, "open sesame" refers to the magical command used by Ali Baba to gain access to a hidden treasure cave. In the story, when Ali Baba says "open sesame," the entrance to the cave magically opens, revealing immense wealth. It has been used as a password or secret phrase to gain entry to hidden places or to unlock opportunities.
Metaphorically, "open sesame" has transpired to symbolize any means or method that provides access or uncovers possibilities. It implies the discovery of a key or a solution that grants one access to something they desire or need. It suggests that a certain action or approach can open up doors or reveal hidden potential.
The phrase has found itself integrated into the English language as an idiomatic expression to describe an opening or revealing moment, typically associated with a sudden and successful discovery or access. It implies that with the right words, action, or approach, one can unlock opportunities, unveil hidden knowledge, or overcome obstacles. In this context, "open sesame" reinforces the idea of an enchanted phrase, granting access to a desired outcome, akin to unlocking a treasure trove of possibilities.
Common Misspellings for OPEN SESAME
- ipen sesame
- kpen sesame
- lpen sesame
- ppen sesame
- 0pen sesame
- 9pen sesame
- ooen sesame
- olen sesame
- o-en sesame
- o0en sesame
- opwn sesame
- opsn sesame
- opdn sesame
- oprn sesame
- op4n sesame
- op3n sesame
- opeb sesame
- opem sesame
- opej sesame
Etymology of OPEN SESAME
The phrase "open sesame" comes from the Arabic folk tale "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves", which was included in the collection of Middle Eastern stories known as "One Thousand and One Nights" (or Arabian Nights).
In the story, Ali Baba discovers a magical phrase that opens the door to a secret cave filled with treasures. This phrase is "Open, Sesame"! The term "sesame" refers to a type of seed, specifically the sesame seed. These seeds were well-known and widely used in Middle Eastern cuisine, making them an apt symbol for something of value.
The word "sesame" itself has its roots in the Arabic word "simsim" (سمسم). Over time, this term found its way into various languages and cultures, including English, where it became known as "sesame".
Idioms with the word OPEN SESAME
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an open sesame
The idiom "an open sesame" refers to something, a word, or a key that instantly opens up new opportunities or access to something that was previously unknown or inaccessible. It originates from the story "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves" in "Arabian Nights," where the phrase "open sesame" is used to open the door to a hidden cave filled with treasures. It is now commonly used to describe a magical or extraordinary solution that allows one to effortlessly access or achieve something.
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open sesame
"Open sesame" refers to a phrase or command that supposedly has the power to open doors or access to secret places or hidden treasures, often used figuratively to suggest a simple way to access or uncover something valuable or secretive.
Similar spelling words for OPEN SESAME
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