What is the meaning of the Sanskrit word 'Deepavali'?

The Sanskrit word “Deepavali” means “row of lamps.” It combines dīpa, meaning a lamp or light, with āvali, meaning a row, line, or series.

The name reflects one of Diwali’s most recognizable traditions: arranging small oil lamps around homes, temples, courtyards, streets, and entrances. Their glow is associated with auspiciousness and with spiritual ideas such as light overcoming darkness, knowledge overcoming ignorance, and good overcoming evil.

“Festival of lights” is a common translation and describes the celebration, but it is not the word’s most literal meaning. “Victory of light” refers to Diwali’s symbolism, while “harvest festival” and “festival of colors” describe other cultural associations or festivals rather than the Sanskrit etymology.

The festival has been known by related forms including Dipavali, Deepawali, and Diwali. Historical Sanskrit references to lamp-lighting celebrations appear in texts and literature from the first millennium CE, showing that the imagery behind the name has deep roots.