Coolie: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word originally comes from the Hindi word 'kuli,' meaning 'hired laborer' or 'porter.'
• It was adopted by various languages in the 19th century, especially during periods of colonial labor recruitment.

Historical Context

• In the 19th century, it often referenced indentured servants brought to work in plantations and railway construction, mainly in the Americas and Caribbean.
• Due to its use in colonial contexts, the term has accumulated negative connotations and is viewed as derogatory in contemporary usage.

Cultural Impact

• The term has appeared in various works of literature and media, often representing themes of exploitation and labor struggles.
• Some Asian communities have worked to reclaim the term in certain contexts, while others prefer to distance themselves from it entirely.

Modern Perspectives

• In today's language, many advocate for sensitivity and awareness regarding the terms we use to refer to others, focusing on dignity and respect.
• The word is increasingly avoided in academic and formal discussions due to its historical implications.

Social Movements

• The term has been adopted by some social justice movements to highlight the impact of labor exploitation and to advocate for workers' rights.
• Discussions about the word contribute to broader dialogues on race, identity, and historical justice.

At rank #25,673, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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• 25675 earldom
• 25676 haughtily
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