Cowrie

usgb/ˈkaʊri/
noun

A type of small colorful seashell found in the tropical oceans, used as money in some cultures in the past.

Mariners in olden days used cowries as a form of currency for trading goods.
Visual representation of "cowrie" - A type of small colorful seashell found in the tropical oceans, used as money in some cultures in the past.

Often appears as...

  • trade with cowries
  • cowrie money
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "cowrie"
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Historic Value

Cowrie was valuable as currency, indicating wealth and trade relations in history.

Illustration for Historic Value
Pottery shards dating back centuries were found alongside cowrie, suggesting an ancient marketplace.
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Cultural Symbolism

Cowries are symbolic in various cultures, often associated with fertility or prosperity.

Illustration for Cultural Symbolism
The bride wore a necklace of cowries, symbolizing a wish for her prosperous marriage.
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Not Current Currency

Though once used as money, cowries are no longer a modern form of currency.

Illustration for Not Current Currency
She found an old cowrie in the attic but couldn't use it to buy anything today.
Visual representation of the word "Cowrie"

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