Chavin

adjective

Cha·​vin
chəˈvēn
: of or relating to a Peruvian culture of the 1st to the 6th centuries a.d. characterized by a platform type of stone building with masonry in alternating thick and thin courses, sculpture of human, animal, and monster heads in the round and outlines on slabs, and monochrome pottery decorated in relief or by incision with feline or geometric designs

Word History

Etymology

from Chavín or Chavín de Huantar, town in central Peru, its type station

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 Chavin

Cite this Entry

“Chavin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Chavin. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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