kora
UK[ˈkɔːrə]US[ˈkɔːrə]
n
A long-necked harp-lute used in West Africa, typically with 21 strings.
Etymology
The word 'kora' entered English as a direct borrowing from West African languages, specifically from the Manding language family where it refers to the instrument itself. There is no further decomposition into classical roots like Greek or Latin; it is a simplex term representing a cultural artifact. The instrument's name traveled with the object through cultural exchange, becoming the standard English term for this unique harp-lute. Its adoption into English vocabulary exemplifies the direct borrowing of terms for items specific to a particular region's culture.
Analysis
This word is a loanword from a West African language (likely Manding languages such as Mandinka or Bambara). It is not composed of separable morphemes within the context of English etymology.
Examples
The musician played a mesmerizing melody on the kora.
The kora's strings are made from fishing line or nylon.
Learning to play the kora requires great skill and patience.