It derives from the root word "dana" that means to bring near. In that sense, "dunya" is "what is brought near". It refers to the temporal world—and its earthly concerns and possessions—as opposed to the hereafter (ʾākhirah). In the Qur'an, dunyā and ākhira are sometimes used dichotomously, other times complementarily.
Meri is both an Estonian and Finnish surname meaning "sea" and a feminine given name. Notable people with the name include: Surname: Arnold Meri (1919–2009), Soviet World War II veteran and Soviet Estonian politician.
