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

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Cite this Entry

“Chavin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Chavin. Accessed 15 Nov. 2024.

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