Cowrie

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈkaʊri/

Definitions

• A small marine mollusk with a smooth, shiny, often brightly colored shell, commonly found in tropical waters.
• Any of the shells of certain species of the family Cypraeidae, often used as currency or ornamentation in various cultures.

Usage Examples

• "The cowrie shell was once used as currency in several African and Asian cultures."
• "She wore a necklace of cowrie shells, which she had collected from the beach."

Etymology

The word "cowrie" comes from the Marathi word "kauri," which refers to the shells of marine mollusks, especially those from the family Cypraeidae. It is believed to have been borrowed by the English language through trade contacts with India and other parts of Asia in the 16th century.

Synonyms

• Shell
• Conch
• Sea shell

Antonyms

• Stone
• Rock
• Metal

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In coastal regions of Africa, the pronunciation may emphasize the "ow" sound as in "cow-ree."
• In South Asia, the pronunciation of cowrie may be softer, often sounding like "kaw-ree."

Historical Usage

Cowrie shells have been used as currency in various parts of the world for thousands of years. They were particularly common in Africa, South Asia, and parts of the Pacific. During the height of their use as currency, cowries were highly valued, and vast quantities were traded across large distances. Their use in trade routes made them one of the most widely used forms of money in history, particularly before the advent of metal coins and paper money.

Cultural Nuances

The cowrie shell holds cultural significance in many parts of the world. In Africa, it has been used as a symbol of wealth, fertility, and status. In South Asia, cowrie shells are often used in religious rituals, symbolizing purity and prosperity. Additionally, cowrie shells have been used in traditional jewelry and clothing, especially among various indigenous tribes.

More Information

Aside from their use in currency, cowrie shells have a significant role in spiritual and symbolic traditions. In the Yoruba religion of West Africa, for example, they are often used as offerings or charms. Similarly, in Hinduism, cowrie shells are frequently associated with Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, and are often used in offerings and as a decorative element in temples.