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Definition of kosi
kosi
/ˈkoʊ.si/
ko · si
kosi Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
9
Tier
3
Usage
Rare
• noun
1
A major trans-boundary river in Asia that flows through Nepal and the Indian state of Bihar before joining the Ganges. It is historically referred to as the 'Sorrow of Bihar' due to its frequent, devastating floods.
Example
"Extensive international efforts have been made to manage the seasonal flooding of the Kosi."
2
A former administrative zone in eastern Nepal, named geographically after the nearby Kosi River.
Example
"Before Nepal restructured into provinces, the region was governed as part of the Kosi Zone."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for kosi• Rhymes for kosi
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Word Origin & Etymology
Derived from the ancient Hindu sage Vishvamitra, who was also known as Kausika. In the epic Mahabharata, the river is referred to as the Kausiki.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.
180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Kosi. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/kosi