At the A1 level, you should know that 'dastāna' means 'glove'. It is a simple object you wear on your hands when it is cold. You should focus on basic sentences like 'This is my glove' (Yeh merā dastāna hai) or 'I have two gloves' (Mere pās do dastāne hain). Remember that it is a masculine word, so use 'merā' and not 'merī'. You will mostly use this word in the context of winter clothes. Practice saying the word clearly: das-tā-nā. It rhymes with 'gānā' (to sing) or 'khānā' (to eat). At this stage, just knowing the word and its plural 'dastāne' is enough. You might also learn the color of the gloves, like 'lāl dastāna' (red glove).
At the A2 level, you can start using 'dastāna' with simple verbs like 'pahannā' (to wear) and 'utārnā' (to take off). You can describe the gloves using more adjectives like 'garām' (warm), 'sundar' (beautiful), or 'chhote' (small). You should be able to ask for them in a shop: 'Mujhe dastāne dikhāiye' (Please show me gloves). You will also notice the oblique form: 'Dastāne me chhed hai' (There is a hole in the glove). At this level, you are beginning to understand that 'dastāne' can mean both 'gloves' (plural) and 'in/of the glove' (singular oblique). This is a great time to practice the difference between 'ek dastāna' and 'do dastāne'.
At the B1 level, you should be comfortable using 'dastāna' in various contexts like sports, gardening, or housework. You can specify the material: 'Chamde ke dastāne' (Leather gloves) or 'Ūni dastāne' (Woollen gloves). You can talk about losing one: 'Merā ek dastāna kho gayā hai' (I have lost one of my gloves). You should also be able to understand instructions involving gloves, such as 'Bartan dhote samay dastāne pahno' (Wear gloves while washing dishes). You are now moving beyond just winter context and seeing how the word applies to safety and hygiene. Your sentences should be more complex, using conjunctions like 'kyonki' (because) or 'isliye' (therefore).
At the B2 level, you can use 'dastāna' in more professional or technical discussions. You might talk about 'disposable dastāne' in a medical context or 'surakshā dastāne' in an industrial setting. You should understand the nuances of the oblique plural: 'Dastāno ki gunvattā' (The quality of the gloves). You can participate in discussions about sports gear, specifically the importance of a wicket-keeper's or a boxer's 'dastāne'. Your vocabulary should include words like 'mazboot' (strong), 'tikāu' (durable), and 'mulāyam' (soft) to describe them. You can also handle more abstract uses, though 'dastāna' remains largely literal in Hindi compared to English.
At the C1 level, you should be able to appreciate the word 'dastāna' in literature and high-level journalism. You might encounter it in a crime thriller where a 'dastāna' is a key piece of evidence. You should understand the historical and etymological connection to the Persian word 'dast' (hand). You can use the word in complex grammatical structures, such as passive voice: 'Dastāne pahne gaye' (Gloves were worn). You should also be aware of the formal synonym 'kar-trān', even if you don't use it daily. Your ability to describe the texture, fit, and specific utility of different types of 'dastāne' should be very high, using sophisticated adjectives.
At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 'dastāna'. You can discuss its role in the textile industry of India, the export of leather 'dastāne' from cities like Kanpur, or the history of sports equipment. You can use the word effortlessly in any register, from slang to formal academic Hindi. You might use it in metaphors or creative writing to describe protection or concealment. You understand all the grammatical intricacies, including the most obscure oblique forms and pluralizations. You can explain the difference between 'dastāna' and its near-homophone 'dāstān' to other learners, and you can switch between various materials and types of gloves without any hesitation.

दस्ताना in 30 Seconds

  • Dastāna (दस्ताना) is the Hindi word for glove, used for warmth, safety, or hygiene.
  • It is a masculine noun; its plural form is 'dastāne' (दस्ताने).
  • Common types include woollen (ūni), leather (chamde), and rubber (rabar) gloves.
  • The word is essential for winter travel, sports talk, and medical contexts in India.

The Hindi word दस्ताना (Dastānā) is a masculine noun that translates directly to 'glove' in English. It refers to a garment or piece of protective equipment designed to cover the hand, usually having separate sheaths or openings for each finger and the thumb. The word is of Persian origin, derived from 'dast' (meaning hand) and the suffix '-āna' (pertaining to). In modern Hindi, it is the standard term used across all registers, from daily conversation to technical medical or industrial contexts.

Daily Life Usage
In everyday life, you will hear this word most frequently during the winter months in North India. People talk about buying 'ūni dastāne' (woollen gloves) to protect themselves from the biting cold of Delhi or Shimla. It is a common item on shopping lists when preparing for a trip to the Himalayas.

बाहर बहुत ठंड है, अपने दस्ताने पहन लो। (It is very cold outside, wear your gloves.)

Professional Context
In professional settings, particularly in medicine and sanitation, the word is used for 'surgical gloves' or 'rubber gloves'. A doctor might ask a nurse for 'disposable dastāne' before a procedure. Similarly, in the manufacturing or construction industry, workers use 'surakshā dastāne' (safety gloves) to prevent injuries.

डॉक्टर ने ऑपरेशन से पहले नए दस्ताने पहने। (The doctor put on new gloves before the operation.)

Beyond physical protection, the word also appears in sports. Cricket is a massive part of Indian culture, and the wicket-keeper's gloves are specifically referred to as 'dastāne'. In boxing, the size and weight of the 'boxing dastāne' are crucial topics of discussion. The word carries a sense of utility and protection throughout its various applications. Understanding this word is essential for anyone living in or traveling to Hindi-speaking regions, as it bridges the gap between basic survival (staying warm) and specialized professional vocabulary.

विकेटकीपर के दस्ताने बहुत मजबूत होते हैं। (The wicket-keeper's gloves are very strong.)

Material Variations
The word is often preceded by the material it is made of. For example, 'chamde ke dastāne' (leather gloves), 'rabar ke dastāne' (rubber gloves), or 'sūti dastāne' (cotton gloves). This allows for precise communication in markets or hardware stores.

मुझे रसोई के काम के लिए रबर के दस्ताने चाहिए। (I need rubber gloves for kitchen work.)

सर्दियों में ऊनी दस्ताने सबसे अच्छे होते हैं। (Woollen gloves are best in winters.)

Using 'dastāna' correctly involves understanding its grammatical gender and how it interacts with verbs. As a masculine noun, any adjectives or verbs associated with it must reflect this gender. For example, if you say 'my glove', you use 'merā dastāna' (masculine) rather than 'merī'. When speaking about a pair, you use the plural form 'dastāne' and the plural possessive 'mere dastāne'.

Common Verbs
The most common verbs used with 'dastāna' are 'pahannā' (to wear) and 'utārnā' (to take off). Another common verb is 'khonā' (to lose), as gloves are frequently lost items. For example, 'Maine apnā ek dastāna kho diyā' (I lost one of my gloves).

क्या आपने मेरे नीले दस्ताने देखे हैं? (Have you seen my blue gloves?)

Agreement with Adjectives
Adjectives must match the masculine gender. 'Garām' (warm), 'naye' (new), and 'purāne' (old) are frequently used. 'Ye dastāne bahut naye hain' (These gloves are very new). Notice how 'naye' ends in 'e' to match the plural 'dastāne'.

बिना दस्तानों के बर्फ को मत छुओ। (Don't touch the snow without gloves.)

In complex sentences, 'dastāna' can be the subject or the object. As a subject: 'Dastāna phat gayā hai' (The glove has torn). As an object: 'Usne dastāna mez par rakhā' (He kept the glove on the table). When describing the fit, you might use 'tight' or 'dhīlā' (loose). 'Ye dastāne mere hātho ke liye bahut dhīle hain' (These gloves are very loose for my hands).

यह दस्ताना यहाँ कैसे आया? (How did this glove get here?)

Expressing Purpose
You can use the construction '...ke liye dastāne' to specify the purpose. 'Bāgvāni ke liye dastāne' (Gloves for gardening), 'Sardi ke liye dastāne' (Gloves for the cold).

मुझे काम करने के लिए मजबूत दस्ताने चाहिए। (I need strong gloves for working.)

क्या यह दस्ताना तुम्हारा है? (Is this glove yours?)

Hearing the word 'dastāna' provides a glimpse into various facets of Indian life. One of the most common places is the local bazaar or market during the winter season. Street vendors in cities like Ludhiana or Manali will shout out prices for 'garām dastāne' (warm gloves). You'll hear customers bargaining: 'Bhaiyā, ye dastāne kitne ke hain?' (Brother, how much are these gloves?).

The Sports Ground
In India, cricket is a religion. During a match broadcast or a local game in a 'galli' (alley), the commentator or players will frequently mention 'dastāne'. They might talk about the wicket-keeper changing his gloves or a batsman's gloves being sweaty. 'Usne apne dastāne badal liye' (He changed his gloves) is a common phrase on the field.

मैच के दौरान विकेटकीपर ने अपने दस्ताने सुखाए। (The wicket-keeper dried his gloves during the match.)

Medical and Health Safety
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the visibility and mention of 'dastāne' have skyrocketed. In hospitals, clinics, and even grocery stores, people use the word to refer to protective gear. News reports often mention the shortage or supply of 'medical dastāne'.

सफाई कर्मचारी हमेशा दस्ताने पहनकर काम करते हैं। (Sanitation workers always work wearing gloves.)

In literature and cinema, 'dastāna' might be used in a more dramatic context. A villain might leave a 'dastāna' at a crime scene, or a hero might throw down a 'dastāna' as a challenge (though the latter is more of a Western idiom translated into Hindi). In Bollywood movies set in cold climates, you'll see actors stylishly removing their 'chamde ke dastāne' (leather gloves) before a dialogue. Listening for this word helps you identify the setting and the level of protection or formality involved in the scene.

पुलिस को मौके पर एक काला दस्ताना मिला। (The police found a black glove at the spot.)

Household Chores
In modern urban Indian households, you'll hear mothers or domestic helpers talking about 'bartan dhone ke dastāne' (gloves for washing dishes) or 'safāi ke dastāne' (cleaning gloves), indicating a shift towards better skin protection.

माँ ने रसोई के लिए नए दस्ताने खरीदे। (Mother bought new gloves for the kitchen.)

क्या आपने बगीचे वाले दस्ताने देखे हैं? (Have you seen the gardening gloves?)

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 'dastāna' is related to its grammatical gender. Since it ends in 'ā', it is a masculine noun. Learners often mistakenly treat it as feminine, saying 'merī dastāna' instead of the correct 'merā dastāna'. This gender agreement must extend to adjectives and verbs as well. Forgetting this can make your Hindi sound unnatural.

Singular vs. Plural Confusion
Because gloves are usually worn as a pair, learners sometimes get confused between 'dastāna' (one glove) and 'dastāne' (two gloves). If you are looking for both gloves, you must say 'mere dastāne kahān hain?' (Where are my gloves?). If you only found one, you'd say 'mujhe ek dastāna milā' (I found one glove).

गलत: मेरी दस्ताना कहाँ है? (Wrong: Where is my glove? - using feminine 'meri')
सही: मेरा दस्ताना कहाँ है? (Right: Where is my glove? - using masculine 'merā')

Oblique Case Errors
When followed by a postposition (like 'ko', 'me', 'se', 'ke'), the word changes. A common mistake is saying 'dastāne me' for 'in the glove' when it should be 'dastāne me' (singular oblique) or 'dastāno me' (plural oblique). This 'o' ending in plural oblique is often forgotten by beginners.

गलत: दस्ताने के बिना काम करो। (Incorrect plural usage with postposition)
सही: दस्तानों के बिना काम मत करो। (Correct: Don't work without gloves.)

Another mistake is confusing 'dastāna' with other hand-related words like 'hathkadi' (handcuffs) or 'pahunchi' (wristlet). While they all involve the hand, 'dastāna' is specifically for coverage and protection. Additionally, don't confuse it with 'dāstān' (a long story/tale), which sounds similar but is feminine and has a completely different meaning. Saying 'merī dastāna' might make someone think you are starting a story about yourself!

सावधान: 'दस्ताना' (Glove) और 'दास्तान' (Story) के बीच भ्रमित न हों।

Pronunciation Pitfall
The 'z' sound is sometimes erroneously used by learners who think it's 'daztana'. It is a clear 's' sound as in 'sun'. Also, ensure the 'nā' at the end is long.

गलत: उसने दस्ताने पहनी। (Incorrect verb gender)
सही: उसने दस्ताने पहने। (Correct: He/She wore gloves.)

इन दस्तानों का रंग बहुत अच्छा है। (The color of these gloves is very good.)

While 'dastāna' is the most common word for gloves, there are several related terms depending on the context, material, and specific use. Understanding these nuances can help you sound more like a native speaker and choose the right word for the right situation.

Dastāna vs. Mittens
In English, we distinguish between 'gloves' (with fingers) and 'mittens' (without separate fingers). In Hindi, 'dastāna' is often used for both, but you might hear 'binā ungliyo vāle dastāne' (gloves without fingers) to specifically describe mittens. Some people also use the English loanword 'mittens' in urban areas.

बच्चों के लिए बिना उंगलियों वाले दस्ताने (mittens) बेहतर होते हैं। (Mittens are better for children.)

Synonyms and Related Terms
  • Hathā (हत्था): Often used for a handle, but in some dialects, it can refer to a protective hand covering.
  • Kar-trān (कर-त्राण): A highly formal, Sanskritized term for gloves. You will almost never hear this in conversation; it's mostly found in old literature or technical dictionaries.
  • Muff (मफ़): Occasionally used for a hand-warmer tube, though rare in India.

पुराने ज़माने में योद्धा कर-त्राण पहनते थे। (In ancient times, warriors wore hand-protectors.)

Comparisons with other clothing items: Unlike 'jurāb' (socks) or 'topi' (hat), 'dastāna' is uniquely associated with manual dexterity. You might hear 'dastāna' compared to 'moze' (another word for socks) because they are both bought in pairs and keep you warm. In a metaphorical sense, 'dastāna' is sometimes used in the phrase 'hātho me dastāne' to imply someone is being too careful or 'soft' in their approach, though this is less common than the English 'velvet gloves'.

सर्दियों के कपड़ों में दस्ताने और टोपी सबसे ज़रूरी हैं। (Gloves and hats are most important in winter clothes.)

Material-Based Alternatives
Instead of just saying 'dastāna', people often use the material to differentiate. 'Ūni' (Wool), 'Reshami' (Silk), 'Chamde' (Leather), 'Rabar' (Rubber). Using these adjectives makes your Hindi much more descriptive.

क्या आपके पास चमड़े के दस्ताने हैं? (Do you have leather gloves?)

ये दस्ताने बहुत गरम हैं। (These gloves are very warm.)

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"कृपया सुरक्षा के लिए दस्ताने धारण करें।"

Neutral

"ठंड बढ़ गई है, दस्ताने पहन लो।"

Informal

"अरे यार, मेरा एक दस्ताना फिर खो गया!"

Child friendly

"देखो, ये छोटे-छोटे दस्ताने कितने प्यारे हैं!"

Slang

"भाई, तेरे ग्लव्स तो एकदम कड़क हैं!"

Fun Fact

The root 'dast' is also found in other Hindi words like 'dastakhat' (signature - literally 'hand-writing') and 'dastak' (a knock - literally 'hand-strike'). It shows the deep influence of Persian on Hindi's administrative and daily vocabulary.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /dəs.tɑː.nɑː/
US /dəs.tɑ.nɑ/
The stress is balanced, but slightly more emphasis is placed on the second syllable 'tā'.
Rhymes With
Gānā (गाना - to sing) Khānā (खाना - to eat/food) Bānā (बाना - dress/guise) Pānā (पाना - to get) Bahānā (बहाना - excuse) Nishānā (निशाना - target) Zamānā (ज़माना - era) Khazānā (ख़ज़ाना - treasure)
Common Errors
  • Pronouncing it as 'daztana' with a 'z' sound instead of 's'.
  • Making the final 'a' too short, sounding like 'dastan'.
  • Confusing it with 'dāstān' (story) which has a long 'a' in the first syllable.
  • Pronouncing the 't' as an alveolar 't' (English 't') instead of a dental Hindi 't'.
  • Adding an extra syllable like 'das-ta-ni-a'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

Easy to read due to simple phonetic structure.

Writing 3/5

Requires remembering the 'half-s' (d-s-t) construction if written in Devanagari.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers.

Listening 2/5

Distinct sound makes it easy to identify in speech.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

हाथ (Hāth - Hand) पहनना (Pahannā - To wear) ठंड (Thand - Cold) कपड़ा (Kapdā - Cloth) दो (Do - Two)

Learn Next

मोज़ा (Mozā - Sock) स्वेटर (Sweater - Sweater) मफलर (Muffler - Muffler) जैकेट (Jacket - Jacket) ऊनी (Ūni - Woollen)

Advanced

हथकड़ी (Hathkadi - Handcuff) हस्तशिल्प (Hastshilp - Handicraft) दस्तकारी (Dastkāri - Handiwork) आवरण (Āvaran - Covering) सुरक्षा उपकरण (Surakshā upkaran - Safety equipment)

Grammar to Know

Masculine nouns ending in 'ā' change to 'e' in plural.

दस्ताना (Singular) -> दस्ताने (Plural)

Oblique singular of 'ā' ending nouns also ends in 'e'.

दस्ताने में (In the glove)

Oblique plural ends in 'o'.

दस्तानों से (With the gloves)

Adjectives must agree with the gender (Masculine).

काला दस्ताना (Black glove) - Not काली दस्ताना.

Verbs must agree with plural subjects.

दस्ताने मेज़ पर हैं। (Gloves are on the table.)

Examples by Level

1

यह मेरा दस्ताना है।

This is my glove.

Uses 'merā' (masculine) to match 'dastāna'.

2

मेरे पास दो दस्ताने हैं।

I have two gloves.

Plural form 'dastāne' used with 'do' (two).

3

दस्ताना लाल है।

The glove is red.

Simple subject-adjective agreement.

4

वह दस्ताना छोटा है।

That glove is small.

Adjective 'chhotā' matches masculine singular.

5

दस्ताना कहाँ है?

Where is the glove?

Basic question structure.

6

मुझे दस्ताना दो।

Give me the glove.

Imperative sentence with direct object.

7

यह दस्ताना नया है।

This glove is new.

'Nayā' is the masculine singular form of 'new'.

8

दस्ताने गरम हैं।

The gloves are warm.

Plural subject 'dastāne' with plural adjective 'garām'.

1

मैं दस्ताने पहन रहा हूँ।

I am wearing gloves.

Present continuous tense with 'pahannā'.

2

अपने दस्ताने मत उतारो।

Don't take off your gloves.

Negative imperative with plural object.

3

क्या ये तुम्हारे दस्ताने हैं?

Are these your gloves?

Plural possessive 'tumhāre'.

4

मुझे नीले दस्ताने पसंद हैं।

I like blue gloves.

Plural object with 'pasand' construction.

5

दस्ताने मेज़ पर रखे हैं।

The gloves are kept on the table.

Plural verb 'rakhe hain'.

6

उसने एक दस्ताना खो दिया।

He lost one glove.

Compound verb 'kho diyā'.

7

ये दस्ताने बहुत पुराने हैं।

These gloves are very old.

Plural adjective 'purāne'.

8

ठंड में दस्ताने ज़रूरी हैं।

Gloves are necessary in the cold.

Abstract statement of necessity.

1

बर्फ में खेलने के लिए दस्ताने चाहिए।

Gloves are needed to play in the snow.

Use of 'ke liye' (for) to show purpose.

2

माँ ने मेरे लिए ऊनी दस्ताने बुने।

Mother knitted woollen gloves for me.

Past tense of 'bunnā' (to knit).

3

बिना दस्तानों के काम करना मुश्किल है।

It is difficult to work without gloves.

Oblique plural 'dastāno' with 'ke binā'.

4

क्या ये दस्ताने वाटरप्रूफ हैं?

Are these gloves waterproof?

Inquiry about a specific feature.

5

दस्ताने पहनकर ही रसायनों को छुओ।

Touch chemicals only after wearing gloves.

Conjunctive participle 'pahankar' (having worn).

6

मुझे चमड़े के दस्ताने खरीदने हैं।

I have to buy leather gloves.

Infinitive + 'hai' to show obligation/intent.

7

उसके दस्ताने बैग में रखे थे।

His gloves were kept in the bag.

Past tense plural 'rakhe the'.

8

दस्ताने उतारकर हाथ धो लो।

Take off the gloves and wash your hands.

Sequential actions using 'utārkar'.

1

डॉक्टर ने डिस्पोजेबल दस्ताने पहने।

The doctor wore disposable gloves.

Professional context usage.

2

इन दस्तानों की सिलाई बहुत मज़बूत है।

The stitching of these gloves is very strong.

Oblique plural with 'ki' (possessive).

3

बगीचे में काम करते समय दस्ताने पहनना बेहतर है।

It is better to wear gloves while working in the garden.

Gerundial use of 'pahannā' as a subject.

4

क्रिकेट में विकेटकीपर के दस्ताने खास होते हैं।

In cricket, the wicket-keeper's gloves are special.

Specific sports terminology.

5

सफाई के लिए रबर के दस्ताने सबसे अच्छे रहते हैं।

Rubber gloves are best for cleaning.

Comparison and recommendation.

6

ठंड इतनी थी कि दस्ताने भी कम पड़ रहे थे।

It was so cold that even gloves were not enough.

Complex 'itnā... ki' construction.

7

दस्तानों के बिना बिजली का काम खतरनाक है।

Electrical work is dangerous without gloves.

Safety context usage.

8

इन दस्तानों का आकार मेरे हाथों के लिए सही नहीं है।

The size of these gloves is not right for my hands.

Discussing fit and size.

1

जांच अधिकारी को घटना स्थल पर एक दस्ताना मिला।

The investigating officer found a glove at the scene of the incident.

Formal/Legal context.

2

दस्ताने पहनकर उसने साक्ष्यों के साथ छेड़छाड़ की।

Wearing gloves, he tampered with the evidence.

Narrative/Literary style.

3

इन दस्तानों का निर्माण उच्च गुणवत्ता वाले रेशम से हुआ है।

These gloves are manufactured from high-quality silk.

Passive/Formal construction.

4

दस्तानों की बनावट में काफी सुधार किया गया है।

Significant improvements have been made in the design of the gloves.

Abstract noun 'banāvat' (design/structure).

5

बिना दस्तानों के उसने बर्फीली चोटी पर चढ़ने का साहस किया।

He dared to climb the icy peak without gloves.

Emphasizing risk and bravery.

6

दस्ताने के फटने से संक्रमण का खतरा बढ़ गया।

The tearing of the glove increased the risk of infection.

Causal relationship in formal Hindi.

7

सर्दियों की उस रात, दस्ताने ही उसकी एकमात्र सुरक्षा थे।

On that winter night, gloves were his only protection.

Poetic/Descriptive use.

8

दस्तानों के चयन में सावधानी बरतनी चाहिए।

Caution should be exercised in the selection of gloves.

Formal instructional Hindi.

1

दस्तानों का इतिहास मध्यकालीन युद्ध कला से जुड़ा है।

The history of gloves is linked to medieval warfare.

Historical/Academic context.

2

दस्ताने न केवल सुरक्षा, बल्कि सामाजिक प्रतिष्ठा का भी प्रतीक रहे हैं।

Gloves have been a symbol of not only protection but also social prestige.

Complex 'na keval... balki' structure.

3

औद्योगिक क्रांति ने दस्तानों के उत्पादन में आमूलचूल परिवर्तन किए।

The Industrial Revolution brought radical changes in the production of gloves.

High-level vocabulary like 'āmūlchūl parivartan'.

4

दस्तानों की विभिन्न श्रेणियों का गहन विश्लेषण आवश्यक है।

An in-depth analysis of the various categories of gloves is necessary.

Scientific/Analytical register.

5

उसने दस्ताने उतारकर अपनी हार स्वीकार की।

He took off his gloves and accepted his defeat.

Metaphorical/Dramatic action.

6

दस्ताने की कारीगरी में सूक्ष्म विवरणों का ध्यान रखा गया है।

In the craftsmanship of the glove, attention has been paid to subtle details.

Appreciation of art/craft.

7

दस्तानों के माध्यम से हम मानव श्रम के विकास को समझ सकते हैं।

Through gloves, we can understand the evolution of human labor.

Philosophical/Sociological perspective.

8

दस्ताने के बिना वह कार्य संपन्न करना असंभव था।

It was impossible to complete that task without the glove.

Absolute necessity in formal tone.

Common Collocations

ऊनी दस्ताने (Ūni dastāne)
चमड़े के दस्ताने (Chamde ke dastāne)
रबर के दस्ताने (Rabar ke dastāne)
सर्जिकल दस्ताने (Surgical dastāne)
एक जोड़ी दस्ताने (Ek jodi dastāne)
दस्ताने पहनना (Dastāne pahannā)
दस्ताने उतारना (Dastāne utārnā)
पुराने दस्ताने (Purāne dastāne)
गरम दस्ताने (Garām dastāne)
सुरक्षा दस्ताने (Surakshā dastāne)

Common Phrases

दस्ताने कहाँ हैं?

— Asking for the location of the gloves. Very common in winter mornings.

मम्मी, मेरे दस्ताने कहाँ हैं?

दस्ताने पहन लो

— A command or suggestion to wear gloves. Used by parents or friends.

बाहर ओले गिर रहे हैं, दस्ताने पहन लो।

एक दस्ताना खो गया

— Reporting the loss of one glove. A frequent occurrence.

बस में मेरा एक दस्ताना खो गया।

दस्ताने छोटे हो गए

— Meaning the gloves no longer fit (usually for children).

पिछले साल के दस्ताने अब छोटे हो गए हैं।

नए दस्ताने खरीदने हैं

— Expressing the need to buy new gloves.

सर्दियों की सेल में नए दस्ताने खरीदने हैं।

दस्ताने गीले हो गए

— Reporting that the gloves are wet (from snow or rain).

बर्फ से खेलने के बाद दस्ताने गीले हो गए।

बिना दस्तानों के

— Without gloves. Used to warn about cold or danger.

बिना दस्तानों के तार मत छुओ।

दस्ताने की जोड़ी

— A pair of gloves.

यह दस्ताने की जोड़ी बहुत महँगी है।

दस्ताने उतारो

— Take off the gloves.

खाना खाने से पहले दस्ताने उतारो।

मज़बूत दस्ताने

— Strong or durable gloves.

लोहे का काम करने के लिए मज़बूत दस्ताने चाहिए।

Often Confused With

दस्ताना vs दास्तान (Dāstān)

Means 'story' or 'tale'. It is feminine and has a long 'ā' in the first syllable.

दस्ताना vs दस्ती (Dasti)

Means 'hand-held' or 'manual'. It is an adjective or a rare noun.

दस्ताना vs हथकड़ी (Hathkadi)

Means 'handcuffs'. Both involve hands, but the purpose is opposite.

Idioms & Expressions

"दस्ताने उतारकर बात करना"

— To talk frankly or without hesitation; to stop being 'polite' and get to the point.

अब दस्ताने उतारकर बात करो, असलियत क्या है?

Informal/Metaphorical
"हाथ में दस्ताना होना"

— To be prepared for a specific task (usually sports or work).

क्रिकेटर के हाथ में दस्ताना होते ही वह तैयार हो जाता है।

Neutral
"दस्ताने की तरह बदलना"

— To change something very frequently (like changing gloves). Often used for people changing opinions.

वह अपने वादे दस्ताने की तरह बदलता है।

Colloquial
"हाथ दस्ताने में होना"

— To be a perfect fit (similar to 'hand in glove').

यह योजना और हमारी टीम, जैसे हाथ दस्ताने में हों।

Literary
"दस्ताना फेंकना"

— To challenge someone (translated from the English 'throw down the gauntlet').

उसने बहस के लिए दस्ताना फेंक दिया है।

Formal
"रेशमी दस्ताने"

— To handle something with extreme care or 'velvet gloves'.

इस मामले को रेशमी दस्ताने से संभालना होगा।

Diplomatic
"दस्ताने पहनकर शिकार करना"

— To do something dirty or difficult without getting one's own hands dirty.

वह हमेशा दस्ताने पहनकर शिकार करता है, कोई सबूत नहीं छोड़ता।

Cynical
"दस्ताने में हाथ"

— Close cooperation (often for something suspicious).

दोनों चोरों के हाथ एक ही दस्ताने में थे।

Informal
"दस्ताने का छेद"

— A small flaw that ruins the whole protection.

उसकी योजना में दस्ताने के छेद जैसी कमी थी।

Poetic
"दस्ताने की पकड़"

— A firm grip or control over a situation.

मैनेजर की काम पर दस्ताने जैसी पकड़ है।

Neutral

Easily Confused

दस्ताना vs मोज़ा (Mozā)

Both are worn on extremities and come in pairs.

Mozā is for feet (sock), Dastāna is for hands (glove).

मैंने दस्ताने और मोज़े दोनों पहने।

दस्ताना vs रुमाल (Rumāl)

Both are small cloth items carried/worn on hands.

Rumāl is a handkerchief for wiping, Dastāna is for covering.

रुमाल जेब में है, दस्ताने हाथ में।

दस्ताना vs कंगन (Kangan)

Both are worn on the hand/wrist area.

Kangan is jewelry (bangle), Dastāna is protective clothing.

उसने दस्ताने के ऊपर कंगन नहीं पहना।

दस्ताना vs पट्टी (Patti)

Both can cover the hand in medical contexts.

Patti is a bandage for injury, Dastāna is a glove for protection.

चोट पर पट्टी बांधो, फिर दस्ताना पहनो।

दस्ताना vs घड़ी (Ghadi)

Both are worn on the hand/wrist.

Ghadi is a watch, Dastāna is a glove.

दस्ताने की वजह से घड़ी नहीं दिख रही।

Sentence Patterns

A1

यह [रंग] दस्ताना है।

यह लाल दस्ताना है।

A2

मेरे पास [संख्या] दस्ताने हैं।

मेरे पास दो दस्ताने हैं।

B1

[काम] के लिए दस्ताने चाहिए।

सफाई के लिए दस्ताने चाहिए।

B2

[सामग्री] के दस्ताने [गुण] होते हैं।

चमड़े के दस्ताने मज़बूत होते हैं।

C1

बिना दस्तानों के [जोखिम] है।

बिना दस्तानों के संक्रमण का खतरा है।

C2

दस्तानों का उपयोग [संदर्भ] में अनिवार्य है।

दस्तानों का उपयोग शल्य चिकित्सा में अनिवार्य है।

A1

दस्ताना [कहाँ] है?

दस्ताना बैग में है।

A2

[नाम] के दस्ताने पहन लो।

राम के दस्ताने पहन लो।

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

High, especially in seasonal or professional contexts.

Common Mistakes
  • Using 'meri' with dastāna. Mera dastāna.

    Dastāna is masculine, so it requires the masculine possessive pronoun 'merā'.

  • Saying 'dastānas' for plural. Dastāne.

    Hindi nouns change their endings for plural; they don't add 's'.

  • Using 'dastāne' with 'me' for plural. Dastāno me.

    When a plural noun is followed by a postposition, it takes the oblique plural form ending in 'o'.

  • Confusing 'dastāna' with 'dāstān'. Dastāna (glove) / Dāstān (story).

    These are two different words with different genders and meanings.

  • Using the feminine verb form 'pahni'. Usne dastāne pahne.

    The verb must agree with the masculine object 'dastāne' in the perfective tense.

Tips

Gender Agreement

Always remember 'dastāna' is masculine. This is the most important rule for using it correctly in a sentence.

Material Matters

Learn material names like 'ūn' (wool) and 'chamda' (leather) to describe your gloves accurately.

Sports Connection

If you like cricket, remember that the wicket-keeper's gloves are a great way to remember this word.

Dental T

Focus on the soft Hindi 't' sound. It's different from the hard English 't' in 'table'.

Bargaining

In local markets, always ask 'dastāne kitne ke hain?' and try to bargain a bit!

Work Gloves

For any manual labor, ask for 'surakshā dastāne' to ensure you get tough, protective ones.

The Dast Root

Connect 'dast' to 'hand' in your mind. This will help you learn other related Persian-origin words too.

Singular vs Plural

If you lose one, it's 'dastāna'. If you have both, it's 'dastāne'. Simple but important!

Devanagari Spelling

Notice the half 's' (स्) in दस्ताना. It's not a full 's' sound.

Medical Settings

In hospitals, 'dastāne' almost always refers to latex or surgical gloves.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'DUST' on your hand. You wear a 'DAST-ana' to keep the 'DUST' away. Or, imagine a 'DAST' (hand) performing an 'ANA' (act) of wearing a glove.

Visual Association

Imagine a bright red glove with five distinct fingers. Visualize the word 'DAST' written on the palm of the glove.

Word Web

Hand (Hāth) Winter (Sardi) Wool (Ūn) Leather (Chamda) Protection (Surakshā) Pair (Jodi) Finger (Ungli) Cricket

Challenge

Try to find three different types of gloves in your house and name them in Hindi: 'ūni dastāne', 'rabar ke dastāne', and 'chamde ke dastāne'.

Word Origin

The word 'दस्ताना' (dastāna) comes from Persian. It is a compound of 'dast' (hand) and the suffix '-āna' (pertaining to).

Original meaning: Something pertaining to the hand or a covering for the hand.

Indo-Iranian / Indo-European (via Persian loanword adaptation in Hindi/Urdu).

Cultural Context

There are no major sensitivities, but be aware that using gloves to avoid touching something might sometimes be perceived as being 'over-sanitized' in very informal rural settings.

In the West, gloves are often associated with formal wear (white gloves) or winter. In India, the formal 'white glove' culture is less prevalent, but the 'work glove' culture is growing.

Cricket matches where commentators discuss the 'wicket-keeper's gloves'. Bollywood movies set in Europe or the Himalayas (like 'Jab We Met' or 'Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani') where characters wear stylish gloves. Medical dramas on Indian TV where 'dastāne' are part of the 'operation theatre' vocabulary.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Winter Shopping

  • ये दस्ताने कितने के हैं?
  • क्या इससे बड़े दस्ताने हैं?
  • मुझे ऊनी दस्ताने चाहिए।
  • दस्ताने का रंग काला है।

Sports (Cricket/Boxing)

  • विकेटकीपर के दस्ताने लाओ।
  • बॉक्सिंग दस्ताने भारी हैं।
  • दस्ताने की पकड़ अच्छी है।
  • नया दस्ताना पहनना होगा।

Medical/Laboratory

  • नये दस्ताने पहनें।
  • दस्ताने डिस्पोजेबल हैं।
  • बिना दस्ताने के काम न करें।
  • दस्ताने कहाँ रखे हैं?

House Cleaning

  • रबर के दस्ताने पहनो।
  • सफाई वाले दस्ताने फटे हैं।
  • दस्ताने पहनकर बर्तन धोओ।
  • दस्ताने सुखा दो।

Gardening

  • मिट्टी के लिए दस्ताने चाहिए।
  • काँटों से बचने के लिए दस्ताने।
  • बगीचे के दस्ताने बैग में हैं।
  • मज़बूत दस्ताने इस्तेमाल करो।

Conversation Starters

"क्या आपने मेरे दस्ताने देखे हैं? मैं उन्हें सुबह से ढूंढ रहा हूँ।"

"आज बहुत ठंड है, क्या आपको लगता है कि मुझे दस्ताने पहनने चाहिए?"

"ये चमड़े के दस्ताने आपने कहाँ से खरीदे? बहुत अच्छे लग रहे हैं।"

"क्या बच्चों के लिए यहाँ छोटे दस्ताने मिल सकते हैं?"

"क्रिकेट मैच के लिए कौन से दस्ताने सबसे अच्छे होते हैं?"

Journal Prompts

आज मैंने बाज़ार से नए दस्ताने खरीदे क्योंकि पुरानी जोड़ी खो गई थी। वे बहुत गरम हैं।

सर्दियों में दस्ताने पहनना मुझे पसंद नहीं है क्योंकि इससे फोन चलाना मुश्किल होता है।

जब मैं छोटा था, मेरी दादी मेरे लिए रंग-बिरंगे दस्ताने बुनती थीं।

अस्पताल में मैंने देखा कि डॉक्टर कितनी जल्दी दस्ताने बदलते हैं। यह स्वच्छता के लिए ज़रूरी है।

अगर मेरे पास जादू के दस्ताने होते, तो मैं उनसे क्या-क्या काम करता?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is masculine. You should say 'merā dastāna' or 'achhā dastāna'. Using feminine markers is a common mistake for learners.

You say 'ek jodi dastāne'. However, in casual speech, just 'dastāne' (plural) usually implies a pair.

'Dastāna' means glove and is masculine. 'Dāstān' means a story or epic tale and is feminine. Their pronunciations are similar but distinct.

Yes, 'gloves' is widely understood in urban areas and among English speakers, but 'dastāna' is the proper Hindi word used by everyone.

They are usually called 'ūni dastāne' (woollen gloves) or 'garām dastāne' (warm gloves).

Not strictly. 'Dastāna' covers both. To be specific, you can say 'binā ungliyo vāle dastāne' for mittens.

The verb is 'pahannā'. Example: 'Dastāne pahan lo'.

No, the plural is 'dastāne'. Hindi plurals don't use 's'.

They are called 'rabar ke dastāne'. They are used for cleaning or laboratory work.

It is used when the plural 'dastāne' is followed by a postposition like 'se', 'ko', or 'me'. Example: 'Dastāno se pakdo' (Hold with gloves).

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Translate to Hindi: 'This is my glove.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'I have two gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'Where are my gloves?'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'Wear your gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'The gloves are warm.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'I lost one glove.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'I need woollen gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'The doctor wore gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'Don't touch snow without gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'Are these leather gloves?'

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writing

Write a sentence using 'दस्ताने' and 'ठंड'.

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writing

Write a sentence about cricket gloves.

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'New gloves are expensive.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'Take off your gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'I bought a pair of gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'Rubber gloves for cleaning.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'The glove has a hole.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'He is wearing black gloves.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'These gloves are small for me.'

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writing

Translate to Hindi: 'Keep the gloves in the bag.'

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speaking

Say 'I wear gloves in winter' in Hindi.

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speaking

Ask 'Where are my gloves?' in Hindi.

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speaking

Say 'These gloves are very warm' in Hindi.

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speaking

Ask the price of the gloves in a shop.

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speaking

Say 'I need a pair of leather gloves'.

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speaking

Say 'Don't take off your gloves in the snow'.

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speaking

Tell someone to wear gloves for cleaning.

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speaking

Say 'I lost my left glove'.

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speaking

Say 'The doctor is wearing blue gloves'.

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speaking

Ask 'Are these gloves waterproof?'.

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speaking

Say 'My gloves are in the car'.

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speaking

Say 'I want to buy new gloves'.

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speaking

Say 'Give me the red gloves'.

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speaking

Say 'The gloves are too small for me'.

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speaking

Say 'Wash your gloves'.

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speaking

Say 'These are garden gloves'.

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speaking

Say 'He threw down the glove' (metaphorical).

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'Wait, I am putting on my gloves'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'The stitching is very strong'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
speaking

Say 'I have many pairs of gloves'.

Read this aloud:

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'दस्ताने' (Pronounced slowly).

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'ऊनी दस्ताने' (Pronounced).

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen and identify: 'चमड़े के दस्ताने'.

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to sentence: 'मेरे दस्ताने कहाँ हैं?'. What is being asked?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen to sentence: 'दस्ताने पहन लो।'. What is the command?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'एक दस्ताना खो गया।'. How many gloves were lost?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'ये दस्ताने बहुत महँगे हैं।'. Are the gloves cheap?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'दस्तानों के बिना काम मत करो।'. What shouldn't you do?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'लाल दस्ताने मेज़ पर हैं।'. Where are the red gloves?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'मुझे नए दस्ताने चाहिए।'. What does the person want?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'रबर के दस्ताने लाओ।'. Which material is mentioned?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'दस्ताने फटे हुए हैं।'. What is the condition of the gloves?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'दस्ताने उतारकर हाथ धोओ।'. What is the first action?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'विकेटकीपर के दस्ताने'. Context?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
listening

Listen: 'ये दस्ताने छोटे हैं।'. What is the problem?

Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:
Correct! Not quite. Correct answer:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

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