What is coolie slang for?

The dictionary definition of “coolie” is simply “a hired laborer.” But the term quickly became synonymous with the thousands of East and South Asians that traveled to the Americas as part of a system of indentured labor used throughout the British colonies.

What is a coolie in the Caribbean?

Oxford dictionary definition ‘Coolie’ is a derogatory term used to describe unskilled labourers. However, in some parts of the Caribbean ‘Coolie’ describes a person who has mixed ancestry usually of African and Indian descent.

What is the etymology of the word “coolie” in Guyana?

If you lived for any amount of time in Guyana, South America, you might have heard the expression “coolie man,” “coolie boy,” “coolie woman,” “coolie people,” etc in local dialect. In Guyana, the expression “coolie” is used colloquially to refer to someone of East Indian ancestry. But what is the etymology of this word?

Do you consider East Indian Guyanese to be coolies?

The term “coolie” as applied to East Indian Guyanese carries a mildly to moderately offensive connotation. It is almost on par with the derogatory word “nigger” given to slaves of African descent by both American and British slave drivers.

What is the meaning of coolie?

Coolie is a porter who carries bags from train to cars to get paid.There is no realtion to being indian by calling one a coolie.Any person can be called a coolie, the definition is explained above. Thank you. Actually their defination is correct. Coolie is any mixed person that looks indian that has some African decent.

Is’coolie’a bad word in Guyana?

I accidentally referred to a Trini girl as ‘coolie’ and it was an issue. Just to say, the word coolie is accepted as a normal word in Guyana so I just have to watch my tongue when speaking otherwise. My view is that different regions have different meanings to words.

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