Common Mayan Words

Everyday Terms

• Bix a bel? – How are you?
• Ma’alob. – Good.
• K’iin. – Sun/Day.
• Ts’íib. – Write.
• Wa’aw – Tortilla.
• Ch’úup – Soup.
• Nool – Grandfather/Ancestor.
• Mejen – Child.

Nature and Environment

• K’aax – Jungle.
• Ha’ – Water.
• Chaak – Rain.
• Sáasil – Light/Moon.

Animals

• Ek’ – Star/Starfish.
• Báalam – Jaguar.
• Much’ – Mouse.
• Tzub – Bee.

Remember that pronunciation and usage can vary significantly across the different Mayan languages and communities.

Mayan Words that Have Influenced Spanish and English

The Mayan languages have contributed several words to Spanish and English, often related to the rich flora, fauna, and culture of the region. Here are some notable examples:

• Gum – Originating from the Mayan word “tsicte,” which refers to the sap of the sapodilla tree used to make chewing gum.

• Cacao – Taken directly from the Mayan word “kakaw,” Spanish adopted this term for the seeds from which chocolate is made.
• Hammock – From the Taíno word “hamaca,” which was adopted by the Mayans into “hamak” before it made its way into the Spanish language.
• Sisal – Named after the port of Sisal in Yucatan, from the Mayan word “sisal,” referring to the stiff fiber used in making twine and rope.
• Papaya – The fruit name comes into Spanish from the word “papaya” in Mayan, referring to the tropical fruit native to the region.
• Shark – The word for this marine predator in Spanish, “tiburón,” has possible Mayan connections, derived from “xook” (pronounced “shok”), a Yucatec Mayan word meaning “shark.”

While not all these words are of direct Mayan origin, the influence of Mayan culture and language on these terms is recognized, blending with words from other indigenous languages as they were picked up by the population which was speaking Spanish and later into English.

Mayan Words with No Direct English Translation

The Mayan languages, with their complex structures and cultural nuances, contain concepts that lack direct translations into English. These terms often convey ideas that are deeply rooted in Mayan philosophy and worldview. Examples include:

• “Ch’ulel” – A term from the Tzotzil language referring to the life force or spirit that permeates all living things, akin to a soul.
• “In lak’ech” – A phrase expressing the concept of unity and collective responsibility, often translated as “you are my other self” or “I am another you.”
• “K’ox” – Describes a deep, inexpressible yearning or longing for someone or something, more profound than the English word “yearn.”
• “Alux” – Refers to small mythical creatures believed to inhabit the natural world, similar to sprites or elves, but with unique characteristics understood within Mayan folklore.
• “Tzolk’in” – The Tzolk’in is the name for the 260-day ritual calendar, which doesn’t have a direct equivalent in the Gregorian calendar system and holds significant spiritual and cultural importance.
• “Way” – In some Mayan languages, a “way” is a person’s ‘alter ego’ or ‘animal companion spirit,’ which has no single-word translation in English.

These words illustrate the richness of Mayan languages and the cultural concepts that are either difficult to translate or require explanation to be fully appreciated in other languages like English.

Deep Mayan Words

These words reflect philosophical and cultural concepts

• “Yuumtsil” – A reverence and respect for the divine in all aspects of life, often linked to the guardianship and stewardship of nature.
• “Halach Uinik” – Denotes a community leader or ‘true man,’ who embodies the moral and social qualities expected of someone in authority.
• “B’a’ax ka wa’alik?” – A greeting phrase that transcends the simple English “How are you?” embodying inquiries about a person’s physical, spiritual, and communal well-being.
• “K’iche'” – Refers not only to the K’iche’ people, a Mayan group, but also encapsulates their language, culture, and collective spirit.
• “Sak’bej” – A ‘white road’ used both physically, to refer to ancient Mayan causeways connecting cities, and metaphorically, to symbolize one’s life journey.
• “Popol Vuh” – This is the comprehensive and sacred book of the K’iche’ people encompassing their cosmology, mythology, traditions, and history.

Romantic Mayan Words

• “Q’eqchi'” – In the Q’eqchi’ Mayan language, this word represents “sweetheart” or “beloved,” capturing the tender affection one person can feel for another.
• “In lak’ech” – A deep expression akin to “I am you, and you are me,” used to communicate a profound connection and unity between individuals.
• “K’isin” – Literally means “moonlight,” it is often used poetically to convey romance or the natural beauty that surrounds us at night.
• “Tz’i'” – Represents “faithful” or “loyal,” qualities that are revered in relationships and seen as essential for lasting love.
• “Xibalba” – Though primarily known as the Mayan underworld, it’s also used in myths to allude to places or events where transformational encounters in love occur.

Want to know Nahuatl words?

Nahuatl Word for Hello

1. Niltze – Hello
2. Nequi – Hi
3. Pialli – Greetings
4. Hui – Hi there
5. Tialitstok – Good to see you

Please note that these translations might not be direct equivalents of “hello” as expressions of greeting can vary in different languages and cultures. The native language of the Aztecs must be understood in its cultural context.

Nahuatl Word for Thank You

1. Tlazocamati – Thank You
2. Tlazohcamati – Thank You very much
3. Tlazo – Thanks
4. Camati – I thank you
5. Tlazotomatili – I give you thanks

Just as with greetings, keep in mind that these translations may not directly correspond to “thank you” as expressions of gratitude can vary among different languages and cultures. These are the closest translations and may differ from ways of expressing gratitude in other languages.

Introducing Yourself in Nahuatl

1. Notocah – I’m
2. Niyolpaka – My name is
3. Notoka – I come from
4. Niyolti – I live in
5. Notlacatilli – I am a

Remember, these phrases are used for basic introductions. The dynamics of introduction can vary greatly among different cultures and languages, so these translations are as close as possible to the concept of introducing oneself in English.

Nahuatl Word for Goodbye

1. Ticmitlazotla – Goodbye
2. Mixpantzinco – Bye
3. Cualli oc se toca – See you later
4. Mopixcauhqui – Until we meet again
5. Tlacotmotlazotla – Farewell

As with greetings and expressions of gratitude, it’s important to remember that goodbye expressions can vary significantly among different languages and cultures. The phrases listed above are the closest equivalents to saying goodbye in English within the context of the Nahuatl language.

Saying Yes in Nahuatl

1. Queni – Yes
2. Aocni – Yes, indeed
3. Cenca oc – Definitely yes
4. Auh quey – Yes, it is so
5. Ca ce – Yes, that’s right

These are the closest translations to “yes” in the Nahuatl language. As with other expressions, these may not correspond directly to the English affirmative “yes”, as agreement or affirmation can vary among different languages and cultures.

Saying No in Nahuatl

1. Ahmo – No
2. Ahmo ca – It’s not so
3. Ahmo cihuapilli – No, lady
4. Ahmo ya – Not yet
5. Ahmo huecauh – Not anymore

As with other expressions, these translations may not directly correspond to the English negative “no”, as the expressions of disagreement or denial can vary among different languages and cultures. These terms listed above are the closest equivalents to saying “no” in English within the context of the Nahuatl language.

Saying Maybe in Nahuatl

1. Cencah – Maybe
2. Auh cencah – Maybe so
3. Cencah oc – Perhaps
4. Cencah ye – It might be
5. Cencah queni – Possibly

Just like with other expressions, these translations may not exactly align with the English term “maybe”, as expressions of uncertainty or possibility can vary significantly among different languages and cultures. However, these terms listed above are the closest equivalents to saying “maybe” in English within the context of the Nahuatl language.

Some Nahuatl words have made a big impact on neighboring languages.

Nahuatl word coyōtl

The word ‘coyōtl’ originates from Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec people. It’s the Nahuatl term for ‘coyote’, a species of canine native to North America. The term was adopted into Spanish during the colonial period as ‘coyote’, and from there it made its way into English and other languages. This is a prime example of how Nahuatl has influenced other languages, leaving a lasting linguistic legacy.

Nahuatl word āhuacatl

The term ‘āhuacatl’ is another noteworthy contribution from the Nahuatl language. The word is the Nahuatl term for ‘avocado’, a fruit native to south-central Mexico. The fruit was highly valued by the Aztecs, and the term ‘āhuacatl’ was cemented in the local vernacular. During the Spanish colonization, the term was adopted into Spanish as ‘aguacate’. It was later Anglicized to its present form ‘avocado’ in English. This etymological journey of the word ‘āhuacatl’ to ‘avocado’ further exemplifies the far-reaching influence of the Nahuatl language.

Nahuatl word cacahuatl

Another fascinating word that originates from Nahuatl is ‘cacahuatl’, which refers to ‘cacao’. Cacao beans were a highly valued commodity in the Aztec society, often used as a form of currency, and also ground into a bitter beverage consumed by the elite. The word ‘cacahuatl’ was later adopted into Spanish as ‘cacao’. As the popularity of the cacao bean spread to Europe, the term was anglicized and eventually became ‘cocoa’ in English. The transformation of ‘cacahuatl’ to ‘cocoa’ showcases yet another example of Nahuatl’s significant influence on global vernacular.

I want to give a shout out to all the scholars and others who are helping to both preserve and invigorate the Nahuatl language.

Common Nahuatl Words

1. Nantli – Mother
2. Tata – Father
3. Tlakatl – Man
4. Siyotl – Woman
5. Tlakamej – People
6. Kali – House
7. Tlalli – Earth
8. Atl – Water
9. Tlen – What
10. Kenin – How
11. Amo – No
12. Kanin – Where
13. Ye – Already
14. Nehnemi – Slowly
15. Teh – Here
16. Yehuan – With him/her
17. Tlahtoa – Speak
18. Niltse – I am happy
19. Nihualaktika – I work
20. Nikneki – I want

Nahuatl Words That Have Influenced Spanish and English

Many words that we use all the time such as chocolate (which as a word has entered so many languages) are Nahuatl in origin. The impact on Nahuatl on European languages is a topic that deserves more scrutiny. Many Nahuatl words have strongly influenced Mexican Spanish and the indigenous language continues to exert its influence today especially in southern Mexico.

21. Chocolātl – Chocolate
22. Tōmatl – Tomato
23. Āhuacatl – Avocado  Nahuatl word āhuacatl used to literally mean crocodile pear.
24. Chīlli – Chilli. The Nahuatl word chīlli literally means hot pepper.
25. Cacahuatl – Cacao. Cortez may have been among the first Europeans to use Nahuatl word cacahuatl.
26. Cōyōtl – Coyote Before the Nahuatl word coyōtl was adopted, the Spanish referred to Coyotes as wolves.
27. Mēxihcatl – Mexican
28. Ēyōtl – Eyotl (Island)
29. Ōcēlōtl – Ocelot
30. Tamalli – Tamale
31. Tlāloc – Tlaloc (God of rain)
32. Mētzli – Metztli (Moon)
33. Xōchitl – Xochitl (Flower)
34. Pēyōtl – Peyote
35. Tēkōatl – Tequila
36. Cōcōxōtl – Cochineal (a type of insect)
37. Zacatl – Sacate (grass)
38. Tōchtli – Tochtli (rabbit)
39. Īztāc – Istac (white)
40. Īztācahuēyōtl – Iztacahueyotl (white heron)

Nahuatl Words that Cannot be Translated into English

Every language has words that are very difficult or impossible to translate. Here are some from Nahuatl.

1. Tlazotli – A term of endearment that has no direct English equivalent
2. In lak ech – A Mayan phrase that loosely translates to “You are my other me,” but the full cultural and spiritual significance is lost in translation (this may be both Mayan and Nahautl but I will verify)
3. Teotl – Refers to the supreme deity or force in Aztec religion, but it is more complex and nuanced than the English word “god”
4. Nahui Ollin – Represents the concept of four movements, has deep significance in Aztec cosmology, and does not have an equivalent term in English
5. Tlamatini – Refers to a wise person, but carries a deeper connotation of respect and reverence
6. Cē mēxihco – Literally translates to “one Mexican,” but it carries a deeper cultural significance of unity and identity that can’t be directly translated into English.

Long Nahuatl Words

1. Huehuetlatoani – Old, respected speaker (elder)
2. Tlatoanimēyeh – Plural of tlatoani, meaning speakers or authorities
3. Tlachinolli – Literally “burnt thing”, symbolizes war
4. Ticitl – Healer or curandero, implying a respected role in society
5. Tlazohcamati – A deep form of gratitude, more profound than the simple English “thank you”
6. Tlaxcalnanqui – Nahuatl term for a baker, indicating a specific societal role
7. Tlazotemaz – To love oneself, with a deeper spiritual and emotional connotation
8. Tlacatlacalli – Literally “man’s pot”, term for a specific type of Aztec ceramic vessel
9. Tlalxicco – Center of the earth, has deep significance in Aztec cosmology
10. Tlacochcalco – Place of the house of weapons, historical location in Tenochtitlán, the capital of the Aztec empire.

Deep Nahuatl Words

Aztec philosophy and religion are receiving more attention from both academics and laypersons. Many concepts in Nahuatl cannot be found elsewhere.

1. Teyolia – The spiritual heart, is believed to be the part of the human soul that carries memory, knowledge, and feelings.
2. Tonalli – Translated as heat or energy, it is considered the source of life in Aztec spirituality.
3. Ihiyotl – Refers to the human spirit, considered the source of dreams and emotions.
4. Nahual – Spiritual animal companion, a concept deeply enmeshed in Aztec culture and identity.
5. Cipactli – The primordial sea monster from Aztec cosmogony, symbolizing the chaos and potentiality of the universe before creation.
6. Xochiquetzal – Literally “Flower Quetzal,” she is the Aztec goddess of beauty, love, fertility, and women’s crafts.
7. Tlalocan – Paradise of Tlaloc, the god of rain, a spiritual place of abundance and plenty.
8. Tezcatlipoca – Translates to “Smoking Mirror,” a powerful god associated with many aspects of life and death, destiny, and the night sky.
9. Quetzalcoatl – “Feathered Serpent,” a central deity in Aztec religion, associated with wind, air, and learning.
10. Huitzilopochtli – “Left-handed Hummingbird,” the patron god of the Aztecs, associated with the sun and war.

Interesting sounding Nahuatl Words

For most of us, Nahuatl words sound nothing like the languages we grew up with…be it English, Chinese, Punjabi, Persian etc. so words from a different language family may sound different. Here is a sample of such Nahuatl words.

1. Cacaxtli – Translates to “back-basket,” a type of backpack used in the Aztec era.
2. Pipiltin – Literally means “little noble ones,” referring to the nobility of the Aztec society.
3. Tlazolteotl – Literally “Filth Deity,” she is the goddess of purification, steam bath, midwives, filth, and a patroness of adulterers.
4. Huēhueh – It means “old or ancient,” but it sounds like “huehue,” a popular internet laugh.
5. Quetzalpapalotl – Literally “Beautiful butterfly,” a term used in Aztec art and architecture.
6. Chīmalli – Translates to “shield,” but can also be used to refer to a turtle.
7. Tlacolula – An actual place in Oaxaca, Mexico, but could be amusing due to its pronunciation.

Aztec Gods

The names of many an Aztec deity is listed below.

1. Xipe Totec – Known as “Our Lord the Flayed One,” he was the god of life-death-rebirth, agriculture, and the east direction.
2. Mixcoatl – “Cloud Serpent,” he was the god of hunting and the Milky Way.
3. Tlaloc – The god of rain, fertility, and water, a vitally important deity in Aztec culture.
4. Chalchiuhtlicue – “She of the Jade Skirt,” the goddess of water, rivers, seas, streams, storms, and baptism.
5. Mictlantecuhtli – The god of the dead and the king of Mictlan, the lowest and northernmost section of the underworld.
6. Xochiquetzal – The goddess of flowers, beauty, art, love, and female sexual power.
7. Tonatiuh – The sun god, he was also the patron of warriors, particularly of the esteemed warrior class of the Aztecs.
8. Coatlicue – Also known as “Serpent Skirt,” she was the mother of the moon, stars, and Huitzilopochtli, the god of the sun and war.
9. Itztlacoliuhqui-Ixquimilli – The god of frost, ice, cold, winter, sin, punishment, and human misery.
10. Coyolxauhqui – The moon goddess, she was associated with the moon as the female reflection of the sun.

How to say I love You in Nahuatl

Expressing affection in Nahuatl extends beyond the simple “I love you.” Here are a few phrases that encapsulate the profound emotion of love in this enriched language:

1. Nimitztōtzin – A respectful way of saying “I love you” in Nahuatl, often translated as “I esteem you greatly”.
2. Ninōtz – A more casual way of expressing love, often used among close friends and family.
3. Tehuatzin tictoz – Literally translates to “You are my beloved”.
4. Nictēmalli – An intimate expression, meaning “I embrace you”.
5. Nicnēqui – A more direct way of expressing desire or love, conveying “I want you”.
6. Nimiqui – A deeply romantic phrase, signifying “I love (and miss) you”.
7. Nictlāzotla – A powerful expression of love and affection, translating as “I adore you”.

Keep in mind, that Nahuatl has many dialects and so the usage of these words may vary from region to region.