Caribbean
UK: ˌkærɪˈbiːən | US: kəˈrɪbiən
adj. relating to the Caribbean Sea or its islands, peoples, or cultures
n. the Caribbean region or its inhabitants
caribbean = Carib<indigenous people> + bean<island suffix>
- Carib: Refers to the indigenous Carib people, who inhabited parts of the Lesser Antilles and northern South America. The term derives from the Spanish Caribe, itself from the Arawakan karibna ("person").
- bean: A suffix of uncertain origin, possibly influenced by Spanish -eño (denoting origin or association) or a misinterpretation of indigenous place names.
Etymology Origin:
The word "Caribbean" traces back to European colonial encounters with the indigenous Carib people. Spanish explorers adopted Caribe to describe both the people and the region. The suffix -bean likely emerged through phonetic adaptation or folk etymology, linking the name to the sea and islands. Over time, "Caribbean" became the standard term for the region, reflecting its colonial and cultural history.
The Caribbean is renowned for its vibrant music and festivals.
She spent her vacation sailing across the Caribbean Sea.
Caribbean cuisine blends African, European, and indigenous influences.
Hurricanes frequently affect Caribbean islands during the summer months.
The Caribbean diaspora has enriched cultures worldwide.