Definition

A natural rubber obtained from the sap of certain tropical trees, used for making various products like tires and shoes.

Example

The shoes were made from caoutchouc, making them waterproof and durable.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of caoutchouc before?

Yeah, isn't that just another name for rubber?

Exactly! I read that it's used in many products we use daily.

That's cool! I didn't realize it had such a unique name.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Caoutchouc originates from the French word 'caoutchouc', which comes from the indigenous Tupi word 'ka'awtuk', meaning 'tree that weeps' or 'the tree that produces rubber'. The term refers to the natural rubber obtained from the sap of rubber trees.

Memory Tip

Imagine a tree that 'weeps' rubber — that's what 'caoutchouc' refers to, as it comes from a word meaning 'the tree that produces rubber'.

Visually Confused Words