A type of large, fast sailing vessel used in the Caribbean and South America, known for its ability to carry cargo and navigate coastal waters.
From Spanish 'caracoa,' possibly derived from indigenous Caribbean languages. The word entered European languages in the 16th century as trade expanded, referring to indigenous or locally-built ships that impressed European sailors with their design and speed.
Caracoas represent the fascinating cultural exchange of the Age of Exploration—European merchants adopted ship designs from indigenous and African sailors because they worked better in tropical waters than European vessels, showing that innovation flows in all directions.
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