feminine noun, locative singular (pathaviyaṁ)
Analysis. Simple word; no productive analysis. In the four-element scheme (dhātu), pathavī represents the solid, cohesive element (along with āpo water, tejo fire, vāyo air).
Etymology. From a root meaning 'to spread' or 'stretch out' (related to Sanskrit prathate 'spreads, extends'). The -ī suffix marks it feminine. Cognate with Latin patēre 'to be open, spread', English path (originally 'a track spread on the ground'). The concrete image is of ground spread out beneath one's feet.
Meanings from the Digital Pāḷi Dictionary; morphology and etymology by Claude.
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