Pronunciation: [kɹˈɑːl] (IPA) 
The word "kraal" is a noun that refers to a traditional African village or an enclosure for livestock. The spelling of this word can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription, which indicates that "kraal" is pronounced as /krɑːl/. The initial "k" is a voiceless velar plosive, followed by the "r" sound which is an alveolar trill, and the "a" is a long open back unrounded vowel. The final "l" is a voiceless alveolar lateral approximant.
A kraal is a term primarily used in Southern Africa to refer to a traditional African homestead or village. It is typically a circular enclosure made of wooden poles, rocks, or other materials, serving as an enclosure for livestock and as a place of residence for a community.
In a kraal, the central space is used for various purposes, including protecting and sheltering domesticated animals such as cattle, goats, and sheep from predators and theft. Surrounding the central enclosure, there are usually several huts or dwellings that serve as shelter for the people living in the community. The huts are traditionally made of mud, thatch, or reed, reflecting the local building materials and architectural styles.
Kraals have deep cultural and historical significance, as they represent the traditional lifestyle and communal living of African communities in the region. These settlements are often tightly-knit communities, where extended families or clans live together, sharing resources and responsibilities.
In addition to the practical functions of protection and shelter, a kraal also serves as a social and cultural gathering place for various communal activities such as ceremonies, celebrations, and discussions. It embodies the importance of kinship, cooperation, and community values within the African cultural context.
Over time, as urbanization and modernization have increased, the traditional kraals have been replaced by more modern housing and farming practices. However, kraals still hold a significant place in the cultural heritage and identity of many Southern African communities, providing a glimpse into the rich history and lifestyle of the region.
A village or collection of huts among the Hottentots of Africa; an enclosure for cattle in Cape Colony.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "kraal" is derived from the Afrikaans language, which is a descendant of Dutch. In Dutch, the term is "kraal" as well, and it means an enclosure or pen for livestock, particularly cattle. The word is also related to the Dutch verb "kralen", which means to string or thread beads. The term was later adopted into English during the colonial period, as it was used to describe the enclosed living areas or villages of indigenous African peoples in Southern Africa, especially those inhabited by the Bantu-speaking groups. Today, "kraal" is mainly used to refer to traditional African villages or homesteads in South Africa.
