Compradore

/ˌkɒmprəˈdɔːr/ noun

Definition

An alternative spelling of comprador; a native agent or broker in East Asian colonial trade.

Etymology

A variant spelling of comprador, reflecting Portuguese influence in the history of East Asian trade. The -e ending is characteristic of Portuguese and older English spellings.

Kelly Says

The different spellings of comprador/compradore reflect the linguistic tangle of colonialism—Portuguese, Spanish, and English traders all left their marks on the same word!

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

English variant of comprador. Colonial commercial term applied to intermediary merchants, overwhelmingly documented as male despite female participation in trade networks.

Inclusive Usage

Use historically but recognize gendered documentation bias. Consider: 'merchant intermediary' to include broader participation.

Inclusive Alternatives

["merchant intermediary","trade agent"]

Empowerment Note

Female compradores in 19th-20th century Asia, especially in family firms, are largely erased from colonial histories. Women managed substantial trade operations but received credit as wives or daughters rather than principals.

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