Andrew K. Rindsberg wrote:
 
cut....
>
> As to guavas <sigh>, they are a favorite of mine, though they are not often
> available here and I usually content myself with guava jam instead. The
> flavor is complex and subtle, and there are many kinds. But some tropical
> fruits have surprising vernacular connotations <wink> and I was wondering
> what extra meanings, if any, Emilio intended. After "conchas," I have
> learned that one must choose one's words carefully in Latin America. And on
> Conch-L. <grin>
Hello!
 
Hi,
 
Ah, well no, no connotations this time. Maybe some small "slang"
variations on the word. In Cuba "Guayabero" is used to denote a person
who stretches the truth, by a long shot. "Guayaba" also means a lie or
tall tale. "Guayabito" is a common name for mouse (little ones).
Last but not least and of great importance is the word Guayabera which
is the name given to a mans shirt, white, linen, usually with long
sleeves, four pockets worn outside (pants), usually starched and on
formal occasions worn with a bow tie (black), white linen pants and a
white Panama hat.  This is the national dress of the Guajiro (farmer).
 
Sorry for the non shell dissertation but maybe you have gained some
knowledge.
 
I also think this is somewhat a similar dress code in the Philippines as
that country was also a Spanish colony. Well, ah, until Teddy Roosevelt
set things right with battleships and his famous charge at San Juan
Hill.
 
Later,
 
Emilio Jorge Power