What does COWRY mean?

Cowry

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A small, brightly colored marine mollusk of the genus Cypraea, often used as currency in parts of Africa and Asia.

Pronunciation (US): /ˈkaʊri/

Pronunciation (UK): /ˈkaʊri/

Origin and Usage: The word "cowry" comes from the Hindi word "kauri", which means "shell". Cowries have been used as currency in many parts of Africa and Asia for centuries. They were also used as ornaments and for divination purposes in some cultures.

Synonyms: Shell money, cowrie shell, cowrie currency, sea snail shell

Related Words: Coral, pearl, seashell, whelk, snail

Example Sentences:

• She found a beautiful cowry shell on the beach.
• In some cultures, cowries were considered to have magical properties.
• The use of cowries as currency declined with the introduction of modern forms of currency.