Ama

/ˈɑːmə/ noun

Definition

A female diver in Japan or Korea who dives for pearls, shellfish, and seaweed without underwater breathing equipment.

Etymology

From Japanese 'ama' literally meaning 'woman of the sea.' This traditional profession dates back centuries in East Asian maritime cultures.

Kelly Says

Ama divers can hold their breath for over 2 minutes and dive to 20+ meters—they've been doing this for 2,000+ years, and their bodies actually show genetic adaptations to cold water!

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