Tano

/ˈtɑːnoʊ/ noun

Definition

In Andean cultures, a traditional building or shelter; a stone structure used for storage or dwelling.

Etymology

From Quechua and Aymara indigenous languages of the Andes. The word reflects the architectural traditions of pre-Columbian civilizations and remains in use in highland South America.

Kelly Says

Tano is one of thousands of words that survived colonization—indigenous Quechua and Aymara peoples held onto their language so strongly that Spanish-speaking conquistadors and colonizers had to adopt Andean architectural vocabulary because they couldn't describe these unique stone structures any other way.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.