aṅgūṣa

 The Sanskrit word "aṅgūṣa" generally means an ichneumon (a small carnivorous mammal), an arrow, or anything that moves rapidly; in another form, "āṅgūṣa" can also signify a hymn or praise in Vedic context

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Definitions and Uses in Sanskrit Literature

1. As a Noun – Animal or Object:
   • Ichneumon: “aṅgūṣa” denotes a small carnivorous animal, often 
   • referenced in classical Sanskrit texts and dictionaries 

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   • Arrow: It is also used to denote a projectile shot from a bow 

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   • Speed/Quickness: Derived from the verbal roots aṅg or ag, it can
   • carry the meaning “moving rapidly” 

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2. Vedic and Literary Usage:
   • In the Ṛgveda, the variant “āṅgūṣa” (आङ्गूष) is used to denote 
   • praise or a hymn, especially in Vedic hymns and ritualistic contexts 

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   • Other derived or lexical meanings include references to certain birds, 
   • elephants, or symbolic representations of speed and agility in poetic
   • literature 

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3. Etymology:
   • The root aṅg or ag relates to motion, movement, or rapidity. 
   • The suffix -ūṣa (Unadi affix) helps form specific nouns, like animals or
   • objects associated with swiftness 

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Summary of Key Meanings

• Animal: ichneumon or mongoose
• Object: arrow or missile
• Attribute: speed or moving rapidly
• Vedic/Uplifting sense: praise, hymn, or laudatory song

Hence, depending on context, "aṅgūṣa" can refer to an animal, a weapon, 

or a concept of motion, while "āṅgūṣa" is often associated with Vedic 

hymns or praise

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This multiplicity of meanings illustrates the richness of Sanskrit 

in conveying both literal and figurative senses.