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Calabash Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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calabash

[ˈkæləbæʃ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

dried fruit

A calabash is a dried and hollowed-out gourd used as a container or utensil.

Synonyms

container, gourd, utensil.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
calabash

Use this word to refer specifically to a type of gourd that is often hollowed out and used as a container or utensil. This term is typically used in cultural or traditional contexts, particularly in Africa, the Caribbean, and South America.

  • The traditional instrument was made from a calabash
  • She served the soup in a beautifully carved calabash
gourd

This term refers to the hard-shelled fruit of a plant that can be dried and used as a container, utensil, or decoration. It is often used when discussing gardening, farming, or crafts.

  • She made a birdhouse out of a gourd
  • During the festival, they displayed various types of decorated gourds
container

This word is general and can refer to any object that can hold other items, including bottles, boxes, and jars. It is used in everyday conversations when you do not need to specify the type of container.

  • Please put the leftovers in a container
  • We need a container to store these cookies
utensil

This word is typically used for tools and implements, especially those used for cooking and eating. It covers items like forks, knives, spoons, and sometimes specialized kitchen tools.

  • Don't forget to pack the utensils for the picnic
  • This utensil can be used to peel fruits and vegetables

Examples of usage

  • The villagers used calabashes to carry water from the river.
  • She served the soup in a large calabash.
Context #2 | Noun

plant

Calabash can also refer to the tropical American tree that produces large gourds.

Synonyms

crescentia tree, gourd tree.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
calabash

Similar to the first 'calabash' entry, this refers specifically to the gourd fruit itself rather than its use as a container.

  • The calabash was ripe and ready to be harvested.
  • She uses a calabash to carry goods to the market.
gourd tree

Used in more informal or casual contexts when talking about the tree that bears gourd-like fruits. This term might be used in general conversations.

  • He spent the afternoon resting under the shade of the gourd tree.
  • The gourd tree in their backyard is full of fruits.
crescentia tree

Typically used in botanical contexts or discussions about the species of tree that produces calabashes. It references the tree's natural state.

  • The crescentia tree grows well in tropical climates.
  • Botanists studied the growth patterns of the crescentia tree.

Examples of usage

  • The calabash tree is known for its large, round fruits.
  • The calabash tree is often used for making handicrafts.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In many African cultures, calabash is essential for traditional ceremonies, often used as a container for food or drink.
  • It's prevalent in Caribbean and South American folk art, where craftsmen create beautiful masks and decorative pieces from dried gourds.
  • The calabash is featured in music, acting as a natural percussion instrument, notably in African drumming traditions.

Botanical Facts

  • The calabash plant is in the gourd family and is scientifically known as 'Lagenaria siceraria'.
  • This plant can grow as a vine, producing large fruits that can reach up to 2 feet in length!
  • It can be found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world, thriving in warm climates.

Arts and Crafts

  • Artists often carve intricate designs into the dried skin of the calabash, turning it into art pieces or musical instruments.
  • Calabash bowls are popular in many cultures, often used for serving food and drink during communal meals.
  • The texture of the calabash makes it ideal for painting, as the surface absorbs pigments beautifully.

Health and Nutrition

  • Calabash fruits can be consumed when young, packed with nutrients like vitamin C and antioxidant properties.
  • Traditionally, some cultures use calabash in folk medicine, believing it aids in digestion and hydration.
  • Dried calabash can be used to make herbal teas, combining flavors from various herbs for health benefits.

Origin of 'calabash'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Spanish 'calabaza,' which originally referred to a type of pumpkin or gourd.
  • It has roots in African languages, where similar words denote various types of gourds used in daily life.
  • The term has evolved across cultures, often referring to both the fruit and the craft objects made from it.

The word "calabash" originated from the Spanish word "calabaza", which means gourd. The calabash has been used for centuries by various cultures around the world as a versatile container, utensil, and musical instrument. It is also referenced in folklore and mythology in different regions.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #30,611 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.