Carib etymology

Etymology

• Carib (English)
• Caribe (Spanish)
• Karib (Dutch)
• Kariben (German)

Meaning

• "Crab-eating people"
• "Brave"

Origin

The etymology of the term "Carib" is uncertain, but two main theories exist:

1. Crab-Eating People Theory

This theory suggests that the name "Carib" comes from the Taíno language word "kariba," which means "crab-eating people."

• The Taínos, an indigenous people of the Caribbean, referred to the Caribs as "crab-eaters" because of their habit of eating crabs found on the shores of the Antilles.
• Over time, European explorers adopted the term and used it to refer to all indigenous people of the Lesser Antilles and mainland South America who spoke Cariban languages.

2. Brave Theory

Another theory proposes that "Carib" derives from the Arawakan language word "karï'ña," which means "brave."

• The name was given to the Caribs by the Arawaks, who were often involved in conflicts with the Caribs.
• The Arawaks recognized the Caribs' fierce and warlike nature and described them as "brave" or "warlike."

Usage

The term "Carib" has been used historically to refer to:

• The indigenous people of the Caribbean who spoke Cariban languages
• A specific ethnic group from the Lesser Antilles known as the Kalinago
• Indigenous people of the mainland of South America who spoke Cariban languages

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