Monsoon winds: Seasonal wind patterns that greatly influenced maritime navigation in the Indian Ocean region. Merchants relied on these winds for efficient travel during specific times of the year.
Silk Road: A historical trade route that connected East Asia with the Mediterranean world, running through Central Asia. Although not directly related to Indian Ocean commerce, it was another significant network of trade routes during this time period.
Swahili language: The Bantu-based language spoken by the Swahili people in the city-states. It evolved as a result of cultural interactions between African and Arabic/Persian traders in the region.