Choi

/tʃɔɪ/ noun

Definition

A Korean surname, or colloquially refers to Chinese cabbage (bok choy) used in Asian cuisine.

Etymology

From Korean 최 (Choe/Choi), one of the most common Korean family names. The vegetable usage comes from Cantonese 菜 (choi) meaning 'vegetable' or 'greens'.

Kelly Says

Choi is actually the fourth most common surname in Korea, shared by about 4% of the population! The vegetable connection shows how food terms often cross linguistic boundaries through immigration and cultural exchange.

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