Cola Acuminata
/ˈkoʊlə əˌkjuːmɪˈneɪtə/noun
Cola acuminata is a tropical West African tree species whose caffeine-rich seeds are known as kola nuts.
Did you know?Kola nuts were traditionally offered at important West African gatherings, including hospitality rituals, marriages, and negotiations, before their flavor and caffeine entered modern soft drinks.
Etymological Timeline
Precolonial West Africa
West African languages
kola / kola nut
“A name for the caffeine-containing seed, probably borrowed into European languages from a West African source; the precise source language is debated.”
16th–17th Century
European usage
cola / kola
“European forms referring to the West African tree and its stimulating seeds.”
Classical Latin
Latin
acūmen
“A sharp point, pointed tip, or figurative sharpness of mind.”
18th Century
Botanical Latin
Cola acuminata
“A scientific species name combining Cola with acuminata, meaning pointed or tapering.”
Modern English
English
Cola acuminata
“The accepted botanical name of a West African kola-producing tree, also called the monkey kola in some common-name traditions.”
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