In English, "supari" is commonly called betel nut or areca nut.
The term "supari" comes from the Hindi/Urdu language, and it refers to the seed of the areca palm (Areca catechu). This seed is chewed, often wrapped in a betel leaf with slaked lime, and sometimes with other ingredients like tobacco. This combination is a stimulant and is popular in many parts of Asia and the Pacific Islands.
Here's a breakdown of the terms:
- Betel nut: This is the most common English term for supari. It emphasizes the nut's association with betel leaves.
- Areca nut: This is a more botanical and technical term, directly referring to the Areca catechu palm.
Therefore, both "betel nut" and "areca nut" are correct translations for "supari" in English, although "betel nut" is more widely used and recognized.