Courap

/ˈkuːræp/ noun

Definition

A tropical tree native to South America, valued for its hard, durable wood used in construction and shipbuilding.

Etymology

From a South American Indigenous language, likely Tupi or a related language. The word entered European languages through colonial contact with Brazilian forests.

Kelly Says

Courap wood is so hard and rot-resistant that it was the gold standard for ship hulls during the Age of Exploration—it could survive salt water for decades!

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