Pronunciation: [kˈɒstə] (IPA) 
The word "koster" is spelled with a "k" instead of a "c" due to its origin in Dutch. In IPA phonetic transcription, it's spelled /ˈkɔstər/. The "k" sound at the beginning of the word is a voiceless velar stop, while the "o" is pronounced as an open-mid back rounded vowel. The "s" and "t" sounds are both voiceless alveolar stops, and the final "er" can be pronounced as a schwa or a syllabic "r" depending on the dialect.
Koster is a term primarily used in South Africa to refer to a type of settlement or village, particularly associated with rural areas in the Western Cape province. The word originated from the Afrikaans language, which is a major language spoken in South Africa. While there is no precise English equivalent for the term, koster can be roughly translated as "small village" or "hamlet."
A koster typically consists of a small group of houses clustered together, often surrounded by farmland or natural landscapes. These settlements are usually found in rural areas, away from major cities and towns. In some cases, a koster may be inhabited by a single extended family or a few families living in close proximity to one another.
Kosters are generally characterized by a close-knit community with strong social bonds. Residents often have a shared history and cultural heritage, which contributes to the sense of unity within these villages. Kosters often have their customs, traditions, and dialects, which may differ from those of neighboring settlements.
The term "koster" can also be used to describe the head or leader of a village. In this context, a koster is usually a respected community member responsible for maintaining order and resolving disputes. They may also serve as a spokesperson for the community when interacting with external entities.
Overall, koster refers to a small, close-knit settlement in South Africa, often associated with rural areas, that embodies a sense of community and shared cultural identity.
The word "koster" has its origin in the Low German language. It comes from the German word "Küster" or "Kister", which means "sexton". The word further traces its roots back to the Old High German word "custāri", meaning "guard" or "keeper". The term "koster" refers to a church caretaker or sexton responsible for the maintenance and preparation of the church building and its properties.
