Kwanza
Proper noun:
- A cultural festival: Kwanzaa (often spelled with an additional 'a') is an annual celebration honoring African-American heritage and culture. It is observed from December 26 to January 1.
Noun:
- The basic monetary unit of Angola: The kwanza (often spelled without an additional 'a') is the official currency of Angola, subdivided into 100 cêntimos.
Proper noun (Kwanzaa): Our family lights a candle on the kinara each night of Kwanzaa. The principles of Kwanzaa, like *Umoja (Unity), are discussed during the celebration.*
Noun (currency): The price of the goods was 500 kwanza. He exchanged his dollars for Angolan kwanza at the bank.
"To observe Kwanzaa": To celebrate or participate in the Kwanzaa festival. Many families observe Kwanzaa by gathering for a feast called Karamu.
"Kwanza notes/coins": Refers to the physical banknotes and coins of the Angolan currency. The new series of kwanza notes features important national figures.
- Kwanzaa: The standard spelling for the cultural festival.
- AOA: The ISO 4217 currency code for the Angolan kwanza.
- Ngwee: The former subdivision of the original Angolan kwanza (1977-1990).
- For the festival: Celebration, observance, holiday.
- For the currency: Currency, monetary unit, money.
The two meanings are distinct homographs (words spelled the same but with different meanings and origins). Context is crucial for understanding. - Kwanzaa (festival): Derived from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," meaning "first fruits." It is a proper noun and is often capitalized. - Kwanza (currency): Derived from the Kwanza River in Angola. It is a common noun when referring to the monetary unit.
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a festival featuring African-American culture; celebrated between Christmas and New Year
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the basic unit of money in Angola