1. First, beginning: This is the most common meaning. It refers to the initial stage or the start of something.
* Example: "muttal naal" (முத்தல் நாள்) means "the first day".
* Example: "muttal varisai" (முத்தல் வரிசை) means "the first row".
2. Seal, stamp, or imprint: "Muttal" can also refer to a seal or mark that is made on something, often for authentication or identification.
* Example: "muttal idaththu" (முத்தல் இடத்து) means "the place where the seal is put".
3. Kiss: While less common, "muttal" can also refer to a kiss. This meaning is usually used in poetic or literary contexts.
* Example: "kaadhal muttal" (காத்தல் முத்தல்) means "a lover's kiss".
4. Pearl: This is a more archaic usage and not used frequently in modern Tamil.
To understand the exact meaning of "muttal", it's crucial to consider the context of its use.