Coolie: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ทโโ๏ธ
coolie
[ หkuหli ]
laborer
The term 'coolie' historically referred to unskilled laborers from Asia, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. These workers were often employed in low-paying jobs, such as manual labor on plantations, construction sites, or as porters in various industries. The word carries colonial connotations and is considered derogatory in contemporary usage, reflecting the exploitation and discrimination faced by these laborers. The use of 'coolie' has decreased significantly and is largely viewed as outdated and offensive in modern language.
Synonyms
laborer, migrant worker, worker.
Examples of usage
- The coolies worked long hours under harsh conditions.
- Many coolies immigrated to various countries seeking better opportunities.
- The legacy of coolies highlights the struggles of migrant workers.
- Historically, coolies were essential for the railroad construction projects.
Translations
Translations of the word "coolie" in other languages:
๐ต๐น carregador
๐ฎ๐ณ เคเฅเคฒเฅ
๐ฉ๐ช Trรคger
๐ฎ๐ฉ kuli
๐บ๐ฆ ะบัะปัั
๐ต๐ฑ coolie
๐ฏ๐ต ใฏใผใชใผ
๐ซ๐ท coolie
๐ช๐ธ cargador
๐น๐ท kuli
๐ฐ๐ท ์ฟจ๋ฆฌ
๐ธ๐ฆ ูููู
๐จ๐ฟ coolie
๐ธ๐ฐ coolie
๐จ๐ณ ่ฆๅ
๐ธ๐ฎ coolie
๐ฎ๐ธ kuli
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะบัะปั
๐ฌ๐ช แแฃแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ kuli
๐ฒ๐ฝ cargador
Etymology
The word 'coolie' originates from the Hindi word 'kuli', which means 'hired hand' or 'laborer'. It is believed to have entered the English language in the 18th century, reflecting the increasing interactions between colonial powers and Asian labor markets. Initially used to describe low-skilled laborers, particularly in the context of British colonial holdings, the term became further associated with the exploitation and mistreatment of these workers. In the 19th century, millions of coolies were transported from India and China to various parts of the world, including the Caribbean, Southeast Asia, and the Americas, to work on plantations, railroads, and other labor-intensive projects. As global awareness of racial discrimination and colonial history has grown, the use of 'coolie' has been increasingly rejected, bringing to light the social injustices faced by these laborers.