There are four varieties of commercially viable coffee: Arabica, Liberica, Excelsa, and Robusta. Growers predominantly plant the Arabica species. Although less popular, Robusta tastes slightly more bitter and contains more caffeine.
QUIPU
quipu
(noun) calculator consisting of a cord with attached cords; used by ancient Peruvians for calculating and keeping records
Source: WordNet® 3.1
Etymology
Noun
quipu (plural quipus)
A recording device, used by the Incas, consisting of intricate knotted cords.
Source: Wiktionary
Qui"pu, n.; pl. Quipus. Etym: [Peruv.quipu a knot.]
Definition: A contrivance employed by the ancient Peruvians, Mexicans, etc., as a substitute for writing and figures, consisting of a main cord, from which hung at certain distances smaller cords of various colors, each having a special meaning, as silver, gold, corn, soldiers. etc. Single, double, and triple knots were tied in the smaller cords, representing definite numbers. It was chiefly used for arithmetical purposes, and to register important facts and events. [Written also quipo.] Tylor. The mysterious science of the quipus . . . supplied the Peruvians with the means of communicating their ideas to one another, and of transmitting them to future generations. Prescott.
Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition
Recent Word Finds
Word of the Day
12 June 2025
RAREFACTION
(noun) a decrease in the density of something; “a sound wave causes periodic rarefactions in its medium”
Coffee Trivia
