brána

Brána is a term used in Czech and Slovak to mean a gate or doorway, referring to a structure that allows passage between spaces. In addition to its literal meaning, it can be used figuratively to denote an opening or entry point, such as the gateway to a city or a particular place.

Etymology and language: Brána derives from Proto-Slavic roots and has cognates in other Slavic languages. In Czech and Slovak it is a feminine singular noun, typically accompanied by adjectives or qualifiers to specify the type of gate or its location. The word is common in everyday language as well as in place names and signage.

Toponymy and geography: The form Brána appears as a toponym in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, where it names villages, parts of municipalities, or geographic features associated with a gate, gateway, or pass. In these contexts the name often reflects a historical or visible gateway, such as a fortified entrance, a border marker, or a notable arch or portal.

Usage and variation: In maps and road signs, Brána commonly appears as part of a larger name or as a stand-alone label indicating a gate or entrance feature. The term is used across Slavic languages with equivalents in other countries, such as vrata in some South Slavic languages and vorota in Russian, though Brána remains specific to Czech and Slovak usage.

See also: Vrata, Vorota.