The term "Hottentot apron" refers to a traditional apron worn by women of the Khoikhoi ethnic group in southern Africa. The word "Hottentot" is no longer used due to its derogatory connotations, but the term remains in use to describe the apron. In terms of its spelling, "Hottentot" is pronounced as /ˈhɒtəntɒt/, with emphasis on the first and fourth syllables. "Apron" is pronounced as /ˈeɪprən/ with emphasis on the first syllable. Therefore, "Hottentot apron" is pronounced as /ˈhɒtəntɒt ˈeɪprən/.
A Hottentot apron refers to a traditional garment worn by a specific ethnic group known as the Khoikhoi or Hottentot people, indigenous to Southern Africa. The term "Hottentot" is considered derogatory and offensive in modern times because it was historically used by European colonizers to refer to the Khoikhoi people.
The Hottentot apron is a decorative and functional item worn primarily by Khoikhoi women. It is a fabric panel made from animal hides, often decorated with intricate beadwork, shells, or other embellishments. The apron is typically worn at the front of the body, covering the lower abdomen and extending down to the mid-thigh or knee level.
Traditionally, the Hottentot apron holds cultural and social significance as a symbol of a woman's age, marital status, or even her wealth. Different patterns, materials, and decorations can convey specific meanings within the community. For instance, certain beadwork designs were reserved for married women, while others were associated with puberty ceremonies or other significant events.
Although the term "Hottentot" and associated stereotypes are now considered offensive, the historical importance and cultural significance of the Hottentot apron remain. Today, efforts are made to reclaim and honor the Khoikhoi heritage, recognizing the apron as a beautiful expression of their identity, craftsmanship, and rich cultural traditions.
In conclusion, the term "Hottentot apron" refers to a distinctive type of garment worn by the Khoikhoi people, adorned with intricate designs, and carrying cultural significance within their community.
• Hypertrophy of the nymphae, common in Hottentot women.
• An exaggerated hypertrophy of the labia minora, common in the native women of southern Africa.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The term "Hottentot apron" is derived from a combination of words that have colonial origins.
"Hottentot" refers to the Khoi-san people, who are indigenous to Southern Africa, particularly in the regions now known as Namibia and South Africa. The name "Hottentot" was given to them by early European colonizers, stemming from the Dutch word "Hotnot", which roughly translates to "stutterer" or "stammerer", possibly due to linguistic differences between the Dutch and Khoi-san languages.
The word "apron" refers to a garment worn over the front of the body that covers the chest and extends downwards to cover the legs. It is typically tied at the waist and is used for protective or decorative purposes.