How Do You Spell CALABASH?

Pronunciation: [kˈalɐbˌaʃ] (IPA)

The word "calabash" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription: /kəˈlæbəʃ/. It is a noun that refers to a large, gourd-like fruit that can be dried and used for making bowls, musical instruments, or other decorative objects. The spelling of "calabash" can be tricky due to its unusual pronunciation, which features a silent "l" and a unique "sh" sound made by combining the "s" and "h" sounds. Despite its tricky spelling, the calabash is a versatile and creative material that has been used in many cultures throughout history.

CALABASH Meaning and Definition

1. Calabash is a noun that refers to a large, spherical or elongated fruit with a hard shell and a fibrous interior. It is typically gourd-like and is commonly found in tropical regions. The outer shell of the calabash is usually dry and woody, with a varying shape and size depending on the specific species. The interior of the calabash often contains numerous seeds surrounded by a spongy, fibrous flesh.

   Due to its versatility, the calabash fruit has been used for a wide range of purposes throughout history and across cultures. In some regions, it is consumed as food, either boiled or cooked in various dishes such as soups and stews. The fibrous interior can also be dried and used to create utensils, containers, or decorative art objects. Its tough outer shell makes it suitable for crafting musical instruments, such as bowls, rattles, or percussion instruments.

   The term "calabash" can also refer to the vessel or container made from this fruit's shell. In this sense, it is often used to describe a traditional, rounded container used for holding or carrying liquids, most commonly water or traditional beverages. Calabash containers may have a simple design, or they can be intricately carved and decorated, showcasing the artistry and cultural significance of the people who create them.

   Overall, calabash is a versatile fruit that plays an important role in various aspects of human life, including food, utensils, crafts, and cultural traditions.

2. A vessel or cup made of the shell of a gourd; a large fruit shaped like a pear.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CALABASH

• walbash
• calabas
• cqalabash
• calabae
• calipash
• hagabah
• calabasa
• salalahh
• Calabaza
• Cazabah
• Calabh
• calabara
• calabaai
• Camabah

Etymology of CALABASH

The word "calabash" originated from the Spanish word "calabaza", which came from the Persian word "kharbuz", meaning "melon". It then passed into Arabic as "qarabas", possibly influenced by the Arabic word "qar'a", meaning roundness. The term spread to various languages, including Portuguese ("cabaça") and then to English as "calabash". It refers to a gourd-like fruit or the large, hollowed-out shell of that fruit, which has been used for various purposes throughout history.

Similar spelling words for CALABASH

• call box,
• clash,
• callback,
• calabazilla,
• Clabaugh.

Plural form of CALABASH is CALABASHES