Kachina

Pronunciation
/ka-CHEE-nah/
Category
Culture
Singular
Kachina
Plural
Kachinas

Definition

A spirit being in Hopi culture, believed to be beneficent and capable of influencing the natural world.

Etymology

The origin of the word is unclear, but it is thought to derive from a Zuni language term for a spirit.

Example

Hopi people perform elaborate dances and ceremonies to honor their Kachinas.

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