Caoutchin

/kaʊˈtʃɪn/ noun

Definition

A variant or form of caoutchouc; an early term for rubber or a rubber-like substance.

Etymology

A variant spelling of caoutchouc, derived from Tupi (South American indigenous language) cahuchu. The word exists in multiple English spellings due to the challenge of transliterating Tupi sounds.

Kelly Says

Caoutchin and caoutchouc are essentially the same word in different English spellings—before rubber became standard, European languages had multiple competing names for this amazing new material that could stretch and bounce.

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