coca
UK: ˈkəʊkə | US: ˈkoʊkə
n. 1. A tropical shrub (Erythroxylum coca) native to South America, whose leaves are the source of cocaine.
n. 2. The dried leaves of this plant, traditionally chewed as a stimulant by indigenous peoples of the Andes.
The word "coca" originates directly from the Quechua language (kuka), spoken by indigenous peoples of the Andes. Spanish colonizers adopted the term in the 16th century to refer to the plant and its leaves. Unlike many scientific or compound words, "coca" is monomorphic—its spelling and meaning remain intact from its Quechua roots, reflecting its cultural and botanical significance without further segmentation.
Indigenous communities have used coca leaves for centuries to combat altitude sickness.
The cultivation of coca is controversial due to its association with cocaine production.
Traditional Andean rituals often include offerings of coca leaves.
Coca tea is a legal stimulant commonly consumed in parts of South America.
The alkaloids in coca leaves were first isolated in the 19th century.