Pronunciation: [kˈalɪkˌə͡ʊ hˈɑːt] (IPA) 
The word "calico heart" is spelled as /ˈkælɪkəʊ hɑːt/. The first part of the word, "calico" is spelled with a "c" and "i" before "co" which is pronounced as "kæl-uh-koh". It refers to a type of printed cotton fabric. The second part, "heart", is spelled with "h", "e", "a", "r", and "t" with a long "aa" sound at the end. The phrase is often used in reference to a pattern or design consisting of multiple calico hearts.
There is no established dictionary definition for the term "calico heart." However, "calico" refers to a type of fabric characterized by a colorful, patterned design, typically with a white background. It often features small, repetitive motifs or larger, intricate designs. In addition, "heart" can have multiple meanings, usually referring to the organ that pumps blood in vertebrates, or symbolically representing emotions, love, or affection.
Combining these definitions, a "calico heart" could metaphorically represent a heart filled with vibrant and diverse emotions, representing a wide range of feelings and experiences. Much like the varied patterns found in calico fabric, a calico heart could be seen as having a colorful and intricate mixture of emotions and passions.
Moreover, the term "calico heart" might also be used poetically or figuratively to describe someone with a complex or multi-faceted personality. It could denote an individual who exhibits a combination of contrasting qualities, such as strength and vulnerability, happiness and sorrow, or love and indifference. In this sense, "calico heart" could signify the intricacy and diversity of human emotions and the paradoxes that exist within an individual. However, it is important to note that since "calico heart" is not an established phrase, its interpretation may vary according to the context and intent of its usage.
The phrase "calico heart" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two separate words/phrases.
"Calico" refers to a type of cotton fabric that is typically multi-colored or printed with small patterns. It originated from the word "Calcutta" (now Kolkata), a city in India known for its production of printed cotton fabrics that were exported to Europe and America in the 18th and 19th centuries. "Calico" itself is derived from the older Portuguese word "calicou", which originally meant a type of imported cotton fabric. Over time, the term "calico" became synonymous with printed cotton fabrics.
"Heart", on the other hand, has roots in Old English and Germanic languages.
