The word "Bohea" is a type of black tea originating from China. Its spelling is unique and can be explained with IPA phonetic transcription. The first two letters, "BO," are pronounced with a long "o" sound, as in "bone" or "tone." The "HEA" at the end is also pronounced with a long "e" sound, similar to "tea" or "me." Together, the pronunciation of "Bohea" is "BOH-hee" or "BOH-ee," depending on the accent. Despite its unusual spelling, Bohea remains a popular tea blend enjoyed by many.
Bohea is a noun that refers to a type of black tea originally produced in the Wuyi Mountains of China. It is a dark, strongly flavored tea known for its smoky and earthy taste. The term "bohea" is derived from the Chinese word "Wuyi," which is the name of the mountain range where this tea is traditionally cultivated.
The name "bohea" was used by the British during the colonial era to describe a specific type of tea from China. It was highly regarded and sought after, particularly in the 18th century. Bohea tea was often considered a luxury item and was favored by the upper classes.
The production process of bohea involves withering the tea leaves, rolling them, and then allowing them to fully oxidize. This results in a dark-colored, robust tea with a distinctive flavor profile. Bohea tea leaves are typically long and twisted, and when brewed, they produce a deep, reddish-brown infusion.
Although bohea tea was once highly esteemed, today the term mainly serves as a historical reference point. The specific tea referred to as "bohea" is no longer produced or readily available. Nevertheless, the word persists in the English language as a reminder of the rich history and appreciation for tea culture.
A common black tea.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Bohea" comes from the Chinese name for a black tea variety known as "Wuyi" or "Wuyi Bohea". Bohea was a popular type of tea in the 18th century and was mainly imported from the Wuyi mountain region in Fujian province, China.
The term "Bohea" was derived from the local Min Nan Chinese pronunciation of Wuyi, which in turn was derived from the Wuyi Mountains where the tea was grown. In the 17th century, the Dutch traders encountered this tea variety and referred to it as "Bohea" in their trade records, as it resembled a type of tea known as "Bohe" in their trade with the Indonesian archipelago.
The word "Bohea" eventually became associated with black tea in general and was widely used in the English language to describe various types of black tea from China.