atajo

noun

ata·​jo

əˈtä(ˌ)hō,

-ta-,

-tā-

plural -s

1

chiefly Southwest : a drove of mules or horses

2

chiefly Southwest : an expedient of any kind : short cut

Word History

Etymology

Spanish, from atajar to intercept, cut off, take a short cut, from a- (from Latin ad-) + tajar to divide, slice, from (assumed) Vulgar Latin taliare

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