chīchīltic
The Nahuatl word for the color red is chīchīltic.
The word chīchīltic is used to describe the color red.
Meaning: colour (noun)
Did you know?
- In Nahuatl cosmology, red is one of the four cardinal directions, specifically representing the East where the sun rises.
- In the Aztec tradition, chīchīltic was often associated with blood and sacrifice, linking the color to the vital force required to keep the sun moving across the sky.
- In many Nahuatl-speaking communities, the concept of 'red' is deeply linked to the cochineal insect, which produces a vibrant dye. This connection means that talking about the color can often imply talking about the precious dye itself.
Example conversation
Cuauhtémoc and Maria are looking at clothes.
- Cuauhtémoc¿Tlen tlamachiliztli quinequi, Maria?What clothing do you want, Maria?
- MariaNiquequi in chīchīltic.I want the red one.
- CuauhtémocIn chīchīltic ca cualli.The red one is good.
- MariaHuai, niquitla.Yes, I'll take it.
