Guazuti

/ɡwaˈzuti/ noun

Definition

A large South American rodent, also called a paca, known for its spotted coat and edible meat.

Etymology

From Tupi (Brazilian indigenous language) guazú or guazu meaning 'large,' combined with -ti. Portuguese and Spanish colonizers adopted the Tupi name.

Kelly Says

The guazuti (paca) was a primary protein source for indigenous Amazonian peoples and remains hunted and farmed today—its Tupi name survived 500 years of colonization better than the species survived hunting!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.