Coconut Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฅฅ
coconut
[หkoส.kษ.nสt ]
Definition
food, fruit
A coconut is the large, brown fruit of the coconut palm, characterized by its hard shell and fibrous husk. It is known for its edible meat and white, sweet water, which are used in various culinary dishes around the world. Coconuts are also valued for their oil, which is extracted from the meat and is commonly used in cooking and cosmetics. Coconuts grow in tropical regions and have a tough outer shell that protects the inner edible parts.
Synonyms
coco, palm fruit.
Examples of usage
- She used coconut milk in the curry.
- He cracked open a coconut on the beach.
- The recipe calls for shredded coconut.
- Coconut water is really refreshing on a hot day.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In Hindu culture, coconuts are often used in rituals and offerings, symbolizing purity and fertility.
- In many Pacific Island cultures, coconuts are known as the 'tree of life' because nearly every part of the coconut can be used for food, shelter, or tools.
Nutrition
- Coconuts are highly nutritious, providing healthy fats known as medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which can improve energy levels and support metabolism.
- The water found inside the fruit is low in calories and contains electrolytes, making it a popular natural sports drink.
Economics
- Coconuts are a vital source of income in tropical countries, providing jobs in cultivation, harvesting, and production of coconut products.
- The global coconut market is valued in billions of dollars, with products ranging from oil and milk to cosmetics and rope.
Science
- Botanically, coconuts are classified as a drupe, which is a fruit with an outer fleshy part surrounding a shell with a seed inside.
- A coconut can float in water, which aids in its dispersal; this allows them to travel over long distances on ocean currents.
Origin of 'coconut'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Spanish and Portuguese word 'coco,' meaning 'head' or 'skull,' due to the three holes on the shell resembling facial features.
- In different languages, 'coconut' has unique names, such as ' noix de coco' in French and 'noci di cocco' in Italian, highlighting its global presence.
The word 'coconut' comes from the Spanish and Portuguese word 'cรดco', meaning 'grinning face', which is derived from the nut's resemblance to a human face. The term was first recorded in English in the 16th century. Coconuts have been cultivated for thousands of years, with origins thought to be in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. The spread of coconuts around the world is largely attributed to early maritime trade and exploration. They became a staple food source for many island communities due to their versatile uses and nutritional value.