How to Pronounce "coolies"
word
ˈkuːliz
KOO-leez
kˈuːliz
KOO-leez
Definition
An offensive and outdated term once used to refer to unskilled Asian laborers, especially from China and India, often in colonial contexts. Now considered highly disrespectful and should not be used.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈkuːliz
British English
kˈuːliz
Simplified Pronunciation
US
KOO-leez
UK
KOO-leez
Listen in Context
In the 19th century, coolies worked on railroads in many countries.
The word coolies is not appropriate to use today.
Many coolies faced hard conditions and low pay.
The experiences of coolies are sometimes ignored in history books.