MARABOU Meaning and
Definition
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Marabou is a noun that refers to a large stork-like bird of the family Ciconiidae, found primarily in Africa. It is characterized by its extremely long legs and neck, large wingspan, and typically white and black plumage. The marabou is known for its scavenging nature, often feeding on carrion or garbage. Due to its appearance and behavior, the marabou is sometimes referred to as the "undertaker bird."
In a broader sense, "marabou" can also be used to describe a type of feather or plume derived from the marabou bird. These feathers are soft, downy, and possess a distinctive fluffiness. Owing to their unique texture and appearance, marabou feathers find extensive use in fashion and crafting industries, as decorative elements for accessories like hats, boas, and costumes.
Additionally, "marabou" can be used to describe a type of edible confectionery. Marabou chocolate, for instance, is a popular Swedish brand known for its smooth and creamy texture. The name originated from the use of real marabou feathers on the packaging of the chocolate bars, which imbued a delicate and luxurious imagery to the product.
Overall, "marabou" encompasses a range of meanings, from a specific bird species to a type of feather or a brand of chocolate.
Top Common Misspellings for MARABOU *
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Other Common Misspellings for MARABOU
Etymology of MARABOU
The word "marabou" has an interesting and multifaceted etymology. It can be traced back to the Arabic word "murīb" or "marābiṭ", meaning a "spiritual guide" or "hermit". This term was used to refer to the Sufi religious leaders or mystics in North Africa who adopted a solitary lifestyle.
From Arabic, the word "marābiṭ" entered the Spanish language as "marabut" or "marabú", retaining its original meaning of a Sufi hermit or spiritual guide. In Spanish, it also became associated with a specific type of stork found in Africa, due to its solitary nature, which resembled that of a mystic.
English borrowed the word "marabou" from Spanish, primarily referring to the large and fluffy feathers obtained from the marabou stork.
Similar spelling words for MARABOU
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