Coatlicue
/ko.aːt͡ɬiːˈkʷe/noun
Coatlicue is an Aztec or Mexica earth-and-mother goddess associated with fertility, death, serpents, and cosmic renewal.
Did you know?The monumental Coatlicue statue discovered in Mexico City was initially reburied by Spanish authorities after its terrifying appearance reportedly provoked fear and religious unease.
Etymological Timeline
Pre-Columbian period
Nahuatl
Cōātlīcue
“She whose skirt is made of snakes; a divine earth-mother figure”
Pre-Columbian period
Nahuatl
cōātl
“Serpent or snake”
Pre-Columbian period
Nahuatl
cuēitl
“Skirt or garment worn around the hips”
16th Century
Spanish
Coatlicue
“Recorded Spanish rendering of the Nahuatl goddess’s name”
19th Century
English
Coatlicue
“Scholarly English usage for the Mexica goddess and her monumental statue”
Modern English
English
Coatlicue
“The Mexica deity associated with serpents, earth, motherhood, death, and regeneration”