Tainos
/ˈtaɪnəs/noun
The indigenous people of the Caribbean islands, particularly known for their presence in the Greater Antilles.
Did you know?The Tainos had a rich spiritual life and were known for their vibrant rituals, which often involved tobacco and the worship of nature spirits called 'zemi.'
Etymological Timeline
Arawakan Language Group
Arawakan
tayin
“The word for 'good' or 'noble,' reflecting the Tainos' self-identification.”
1492
Spanish
Taino
“The term used by Spanish colonizers to refer to the peaceful indigenous people they encountered.”
17th Century
English
Tainos
“Adopted into English, the name signifies the indigenous group of the Caribbean.”
Modern Era
English
Tainos
“Used to denote both the historical peoples and their cultural descendants in modern Caribbean societies.”