accusative singular masculine noun
Analysis. A straightforward nominal form with no compounding or internal complexity. The word appears in both literal (architectural, material) and figurative (meditative-conceptual) senses within the suttas.
Etymology. Cognate with Sanskrit sthūṇā (pillar, post) and Greek stýlos via Indo-European *stéu- (to stand, to set upright). Related to English stud, stock, and stub—all referring to something fixed and firm. The concrete image of a pillar as something standing solid underlies even its use as mental support or focal point in meditation.
Meanings from the Digital Pāḷi Dictionary; morphology and etymology by Claude.
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