Cihuacóatl
/siˈwa.ko.at͡ɬ/noun
In Aztec mythology, Cihuacóatl is a goddess associated with childbirth, motherhood, and war; the name also referred to a high-ranking political-religious office in the Mexica state.
Did you know?In Nahuatl tradition, Cihuacóatl was both a divine figure and a state office, showing how sacred language could literally become political power.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Nahuatl
Nah
cihuācōātl
“woman serpent; the name/title of a goddess and later a high political office”
Postclassic Period
Nah
cihuācōātl
“a revered deity associated with childbirth and protection, and a title used in Mexica governance”
16th Century
Spa
Cihuacóatl
“Spanish transcription of the Nahuatl name in colonial sources”
Modern English
English
Cihuacóatl
“the Nahuatl goddess name and historical title used in scholarship”
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