Word Study
coca
CIDE DICTIONARY
coca, n. [Sp., fr. native name.].
The dried leaf of a South American shrub (Erythroxylon Coca ). In med., called Erythroxylon. [1913 Webster]
" Coca leaves resemble tea leaves in size, shape, and odor, and are chewed (with an alkali) by natives of Peru and Bolivia to impart vigor in prolonged exertion, or to sustain strength in absence of food." [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
coca, n.
1 a S. American shrub, Erythroxylum coca.
2 its dried leaves, chewed as a stimulant.
1 a S. American shrub, Erythroxylum coca.
2 its dried leaves, chewed as a stimulant.
Etymology
Sp. f. Quechua cuca
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