boteh means the droplet-shaped motif on which paisley patterns are based. Lexicurio rates it Sui generis — a strength score of 86 out of 100.
Why “boteh” is a great word
BOTEH — [Noun] The droplet- or almond-shaped Persian motif representing a stylized floral spray or cypress tree, which forms the foundational element of the paisley pattern. Its name descends from Iranian Persian بته (botte), from Classical Persian بته (butta), a shortening of بته جقه (butta jiqqa, 'boteh jegheh'), meaning the same ornamental form. Unlike paisley (which names the Western textile pattern adapted in a Scottish town) or buta (which is merely an alternate transliteration), boteh is the specific, indigenous term for the original seed. It is the cypress tree bent by eternal wind into a single, teardrop curve; the flame of a Zoroastrian fire frozen in silk; the unblinking almond eye woven into the borders of a carpet—a single, fertile curl containing an entire ornamental universe.
Etymology
From Iranian Persian بته (botte) (giving the spelling boteh), from Classical Persian بته (butta) (giving the spelling buta), a shortening of بته جقه (butta jiqqa), which has the same meaning.
noun
- The droplet-shaped motif on which paisley patterns are based.