CAZIQUE Meaning and
Definition
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Cazique is a noun that refers to a traditional title or designation of native chief or leader in various indigenous cultures of the Americas, particularly those located in the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of South America. The term originates from the Taíno language, spoken by the indigenous Taíno people of the Greater Antilles.
In the societies where the designation of cazique is present, the cazique usually holds significant power and authority within their community. They are typically responsible for making important decisions, settling disputes, organizing hunts or military actions, and managing the overall well-being of their tribe or village. Additionally, the cazique often represents their people in dealings with outsiders, such as during trade negotiations or diplomatic relations with neighboring tribes or European settlers.
Caziques can be hereditary, with leadership passing from one generation to the next within a specific family lineage, or they can be chosen through a selection process based on various criteria like bravery, wisdom, or other valued qualities. Caziques may also hold religious or spiritual roles within their communities, being responsible for performing rituals or acting as mediators between their people and the spiritual world.
Overall, the term cazique encompasses the notion of a prominent and respected leader within indigenous American societies, embodying political, social, and sometimes religious authority.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CAZIQUE
- xazique
- vazique
- fazique
- dazique
- czzique
- cszique
- cwzique
- cqzique
- cazuque
- cazjque
- cazkque
- cazoque
- caz9que
- caz8que
- cazi1ue
- cazi2ue
- caziwue
- caziaue
- caziqye
Etymology of CAZIQUE
The word "cazique" has its origin in the Taíno language, which was spoken by the indigenous people of the Caribbean, including the Taíno tribe. The Taíno were the original inhabitants of the Greater Antilles and parts of the Bahamas. In their language, "kasikɛ" (pronounced kaseekè) referred to a tribal chief or leader.
When Christopher Columbus and other European explorers arrived in the Caribbean in the late 15th century, they encountered these tribal chiefs and adapted the Taíno word "kasikɛ" into various forms, including "cacique" in Spanish and "cazique" in Portuguese. These terms were used to refer to indigenous leaders, rulers, or nobles in the Americas.
Over time, the term "cazique" has come to specifically represent the leaders of indigenous communities during the colonial period in Central and South America.
Similar spelling word for CAZIQUE
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