Cypraea Tigris (Noun)
Meaning
Cowrie whose shell is used for ornament.
Classification
Nouns denoting animals.
Examples
- The Cypraea tigris, commonly known as the tiger cowrie, has a distinctive shell with vibrant spots and patterns, making it highly sought after for ornamental purposes.
- The native Polynesian people traditionally used the Cypraea tigris shell in the making of elaborate leis, signifying their wealth and status within the community.
- Shell enthusiasts eagerly sought the Cypraea tigris, also known as the tiger cowrie, due to its rare beauty and use as a popular decorative piece.
- Women adorn their bodies with beautifully polished Cypraea tigris shells as an elegant accent for both practical and decorative uses in Hawaiian dances.
- Conchs, olivella shells, and particularly Cypraea tigris have played important roles as exchange currency or gifts to a ruler during earlier history in coastal nations and within Hawaiian social cultures.