atl
/atɬ/
The English word "water" is atl in Nahuatl. Wiktionary also lists atzintli.
Meaning: inorganic compound H₂O (noun)
Ways to say it
| Nahuatl | IPA |
|---|---|
| atl | /atɬ/ |
| atzintli |
The term refers to the inorganic compound H₂O.
Which one should you use?
While atl is the standard term, atzintli is the diminutive form. This version is used to describe a small amount of water or to express affection and endearment.
How does it change in a sentence?
The default form atl is a noun that frequently functions as a combining form when creating compound words.
How do you pronounce it?
/atɬ/
Did you know?
- The Aztecs associated atl with the goddess Chalchiuhtlicue, whose name means 'she of the jade skirt'. This name uses the word for 'water' as a metaphor for the shimmering surface of a lake.
- The term atzintli uses the suffix -tzin, which is not just for size. This suffix is a 'reverential' marker used to show deep respect or politeness toward the thing being discussed.
- Because atl is so common in compound words, many Nahuatl place names across Mexico end in -atl or -atlpan, which tells you the area was historically known for its water sources.
Example sentences for Nahuatl are not verified yet.
Example conversation
Yolanda and José are in the kitchen.
- YolandaJosé, ¿amo tlacua atl?José, don't you want water?
- JoséQu nemi, tlazcaltiani atl.Yes, I need water.
- YolandaXipaquia in atl.Drink the water.
- JoséTlazahualti, Yolanda.Thank you, Yolanda.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “water” translations and entries atl, atzintli, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
