Cowrie

/kˈa‍ʊɹi/

/kˈaʊɹi/

[noun]

Cowrie

[NOUN]

a small marine snail with a brightly colored and polished shell that is often used for decorative and cultural purposes

synonyms : cowry

What is a "cowrie"?

A cowrie is a type of small marine snail with a smooth, glossy shell that is typically oval-shaped and ventrally flattened. It is known for its strikingly patterned shell, which often features intricate designs and vibrant colors. Cowries are commonly found in tropical and subtropical waters and are highly valued for their ornamental use in jewelry and traditional crafts. In some cultures, cowrie shells hold symbolic and spiritual significance, representing prosperity, fertility, and protection.

Examples

1. People have used cowrie shells in many places - from China to Africa.

2. In some parts of the world, people used cowrie shells as money until the eighteen hundreds.

3. West African rulers and consumers wanted cowrie shells and Indian textiles as payment for slaves.

4. This shell is called a cowrie shell.

Nearby words