Definition

1. Noun:
   • An ethnic group: The Mayas are an indigenous people of Mesoamerica, primarily inhabiting the Yucatán Peninsula and adjacent regions in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras.
   • A linguistic and cultural group: The term refers to the collective peoples who speak Mayan languages and share a common historical and cultural heritage, notably known for their pre-Columbian civilization.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The ancient Mayas developed sophisticated systems of writing, mathematics, and astronomy.
  • Many modern Mayas continue to practice traditional agriculture and crafts in their communities.

Advanced Usage

• "the Mayas": Used with the definite article to refer to the people collectively, both historically and contemporarily.
  • Scholars study how the Mayas adapted to environmental changes over centuries.

Variants and Related Words

• Maya (noun, singular): Can refer to a single member of this ethnic group or, in different contexts (especially philosophy/religion), to a concept of illusion in Hinduism.
  • A Maya from Guatemala explained the significance of the traditional textile patterns.
• Mayan (adjective): Pertaining to the Maya peoples, their languages, or culture.
  • They are experts in Mayan archaeology.
• Mayan (noun): Refers to a language belonging to the Mayan language family.
  • He is fluent in Yucatec Mayan.

Synonyms

• Indigenous people of the Yucatán: A descriptive synonym specifying their geographic region.
• Mesoamerican people: A broader term placing them within a larger cultural and historical area.

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Mayas" specifically denotes the ethnic and cultural group. It is distinct from the singular "Maya" used for an individual or the philosophical concept. The plural form emphasizes the collective identity of the people.

Noun

1. an ethnic minority speaking Mayan languages and living in Yucatan and adjacent areas