noun
ama
AH-muh
noun
1
A traditional Japanese diver, typically a woman, who free-dives for pearls, shellfish, or seaweed.
"The ama dove without any breathing equipment, holding her breath for minutes at a time."
2
The outrigger float attached to a canoe or trimaran for stability.
"The ama kept the small canoe from tipping in rough water."
How to Use Ama
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a traditional Japanese free-diver or the stabilizing float on an outrigger canoe, depending on context.
Word Forms
amas plural, amas plural, amas plural, amas plural, amas plural
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The _____ dove without any breathing equipment, holding her breath for minutes at a time.
Etymology
Borrowed from Japanese ama, referring to the traditional pearl and shellfish divers.