kokowai
New Zealand English term borrowed from Maori, referring to red ochre — an iron oxide pigment used historically by Maori for body decoration, canoe painting, and marking significant objects.
Definitions
New Zealand English term borrowed from Maori, referring to red ochre — an iron oxide pigment used historically by Maori for body decoration, canoe painting, and marking significant objects. In contemporary usage it appears in cultural and historical contexts, particularly discussions of Maori art and traditions. A recognized loanword firmly embedded in New Zealand English.
The carved meeting house was painted with kokowai, its deep red finish glowing in the afternoon light.
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(NZ) Red ochre.
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