Turáns

Turáns is a term that can refer to several distinct concepts, depending on context. It appears in historical geography, ethnology, nationalist movements, and as a surname.

In historical and geographic use, Turan or Turanians described a broad, sometimes vaguely defined zone spanning parts of Central Asia and adjacent regions. The label was used to group diverse populations—often by perceived linguistic or cultural affinities—rather than to reflect a single, cohesive people. In modern scholarship, the concept is generally considered outdated and imprecise, with emphasis placed on the complexity and diversity of groups within the region rather than a unified Turanian identity.

Turanism refers to a loose set of nationalist or cultural movements that advocate close ties or political cooperation among peoples speaking Turanian languages. The movement appeared in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with manifestations in Hungary and among various Turkic-speaking communities. Adherents are sometimes described as Turanians or Turanists. Turanism varied in its aims, ranging from cultural solidarity to political idealism, and the movement declined in influence after World War II; today it is often discussed in historical contexts and is viewed critically for its associations with nationalist ideologies.

Onomastics and notable figures: Turán is a surname used in Hungarian and Turkish contexts. The plural Turáns would refer to multiple individuals bearing this name. In mathematics, the surname is associated with Pál Turán (1910–1976), a Hungarian mathematician known for Turán's theorem.

See also Turan (disambiguation) for related terms and uses.