Pueblo Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pueblo
[ˈpwɛbloʊ ]
Definition
type of community
A pueblo is a type of community typically associated with Native American tribes in the Southwestern United States. The term originally referred to the multi-story adobe dwellings built by these tribes, which were often clustered together. Pueblos are characterized by their communal structure and historical significance, representing the social and cultural lifestyles of indigenous peoples. In modern usage, 'pueblo' can also refer to the people living in such dwellings or the community itself.
Synonyms
community, settlement, village.
Examples of usage
- The pueblo is known for its rich cultural traditions.
- Many pueblos still preserve ancient customs.
- The architecture of the pueblo is remarkable.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Pueblo peoples are known for their unique artistic traditions, including pottery, weaving, and kachina doll-making.
- Many pueblos still practice ancient rituals that connect them to their ancestors and the natural world, emphasizing harmony with nature.
- The Pueblo Revolt of 1680 was a significant uprising against Spanish colonization, showcasing their resilience and cultural pride.
Architecture
- Pueblo homes are often made from adobe, a building material made from clay, water, and straw, providing insulation and resilience.
- The architecture typically features flat roofs and multi-storied structures, allowing for a compact, communal living arrangement.
- Some pueblo communities, like Taos Pueblo in New Mexico, have been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years, making them some of the oldest continuously occupied communities in the United States.
History
- The Pueblo peoples include various tribes, such as the Hopi, Zuni, and Taos, each with distinct languages and customs.
- Historically, pueblos were largely agricultural, relying on farming techniques developed over centuries to cultivate crops like corn, beans, and squash.
- In the 19th century, many Pueblo communities faced forced assimilation efforts but have worked to preserve their culture and identity.
Modern Day
- Today, many Pueblo communities operate casinos and engage in tourism, helping to sustain their economies while preserving their heritage.
- Cultural events and festivals are held to celebrate traditional practices, arts, and the history of Pueblo peoples.
- Pueblo demographics are diverse, with many families maintaining their native languages and traditions while integrating into contemporary society.
Origin of 'pueblo'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pueblo' comes from the Spanish language, meaning 'village' or 'town.'
- In the 1600s, Spanish explorers first used the term to describe the Native American communities they encountered.
- The term has roots in Latin, where 'populus' means 'people,' highlighting the communal aspect of these societies.
The word 'pueblo' comes from the Spanish language, where it means 'village' or 'town.' It was used to describe the native communities that were found in the Southwestern regions of what is now the United States, particularly in areas like New Mexico and Arizona. The term highlights the unique architectural style of the communities built there, which often included adobe homes constructed from mud and straw. Spanish explorers and settlers first encountered these communities in the 16th century, leading to the assimilation of the word into English language usage. Over time, 'pueblo' has come to encompass not only the physical dwellings but also the cultural heritage of the Pueblo peoples, their art, traditions, and social structures. The pueblos served as important centers for trade, governance, and religious practices among Native American groups in the region.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #19,346, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
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- 19343 shackles
- 19344 decadent
- 19345 microbiology
- 19346 pueblo
- 19347 convoluted
- 19348 unrecorded
- 19349 nonfiction
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