calpulli

noun

cal·​pul·​li
kalˈpu̇lē
variants or less commonly calpolli
-ˈȯ-
or calpul
ˈkalˌpu̇l
plural calpulli
-u̇lē
also calpullec
-u̇(ˌ)lek
: a clan or ward constituting the fundamental unit of Aztec society

Word History

Etymology

Nahuatl calpulli, literally, big house, augmentative of calli house

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near calpulli

Cite this Entry

“Calpulli.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calpulli. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!