caboclo

noun

ca·​bo·​clo

kəˈbȯ(ˌ)klü,

-ˈō-

plural -s

1

a

: an acculturated Brazilian Indian

b

: a Brazilian of mixed American Indian and European ancestry compare mameluco

2

: a rural South American of mixed American Indian and European ancestry

Word History

Etymology

Portuguese, from Tupi caboco, caboculo, caboclo

First Known Use

1816, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now