Kolanut
/ˈkoʊlə nʌt/noun
The caffeine-rich seed of a kola tree, traditionally chewed or used to flavor beverages.
Did you know?In several West African cultures, presenting and sharing kola nuts has carried meanings of welcome, respect, alliance, and ceremonial blessing.
Etymological Timeline
Pre-colonial West Africa
West African languages
kola
“A regional name for the kola tree and its stimulating seed; the precise ultimate source is uncertain.”
16th Century
Portuguese
cola
“A recorded West African term adopted by Portuguese traders for the kola tree or nut.”
16th–17th Century
English
cola
“An English borrowing referring to the kola tree and its seed.”
18th Century
English
kola nut
“The seed of the kola tree, increasingly described as a source of caffeine.”
Modern English
English
kolanut
“A one-word form meaning the same caffeine-rich seed, also written kola nut.”