Botocudo

/ˌboʊtəˈkuːdoʊ/ noun

Definition

A member of an indigenous people of Brazil historically known for their practice of lip plugs and distinctive cultural modifications.

Etymology

From Portuguese 'botocu' meaning wooden lip plug or disk, plus suffix '-udo' (full of/characterized by). 'Boto' derives from indigenous language roots.

Kelly Says

The Botocudo practiced lip plates made from wood—when the Portuguese arrived, they considered this practice barbaric, but it was actually an elegant form of identity and status marking, as meaningful as any modern piercing.

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