carapa

noun

ca·​rapa

kəˈrapə

1

capitalized : a small genus of tropical trees (family Meliaceae) having abruptly pinnate leaves and flowers with four or five petals and monadelphous stamens

2

or less commonly carap

kəˈrap

or crab

ˈkrab 

plural -s [carap, short for carapa; crab, by folk etymology from carapa] : any tree of the genus Carapa

carap wood

crab nut

see crabwood

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from Galibi carapa, krapa, literally, oil

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