The word "cuanza" is spelled as kuˈanza in IPA phonetic transcription. This word is derived from the Portuguese language and refers to the Cuanza River, the longest river in Angola. The pronunciation of "cuanza" involves two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable, and the vowel sound 'u' pronounced like the sound in the word 'put'. The 'z' in the word is pronounced like the English 'z' sound. Correct spelling and pronunciation of "cuanza" are important for effective communication about Angola's geography and culture.
The word "cuanza" has multiple definitions depending on the context and regional usage. In the field of finance and economics, "cuanza" refers to the official currency of Angola, which is subdivided into 100 units called "Lwei." It is denoted by the currency code AOA and is represented by the symbol Kz.
Additionally, "cuanza" can be defined as a river in central Angola. The Cuanza River, also known as the Kwanza River, is the longest river in Angola, stretching approximately 1,020 kilometers. It originates from the Bié Plateau and flows through the Cuanza Sul and Luanda provinces before reaching the Atlantic Ocean.
Furthermore, "cuanza" can also refer to a geographical region in Angola. The Cuanza region, located in the central part of the country, encompasses various provinces, including Cuanza Sul, Cuanza Norte, and Malanje. This region is characterized by its diverse flora and fauna, agricultural activities, and historical importance.
In summary, "cuanza" can denote the currency of Angola, the longest river in the country, or a geographical region in central Angola. The specific definition depends on the context in which the term is used.
The word "cuanza" comes from the Kimbundu language, which is spoken mainly in Angola. In Kimbundu, "kwanza" means "spring" or "origin". The currency of Angola, known as the Angolan kwanza, was named after the river Cuanza (also spelled Kwanza), which is the longest river in Angola and holds great significance in the country's history and culture. Thus, the etymology of the word "cuanza" is rooted in the Kimbundu language and the natural features of Angola.