What does QUIPU mean?

Quipu

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A device made of knotted cords used by the Incas and other ancient Andean cultures to record numerical and other types of data.

Pronunciation (US): /ˈkiːpuː/

Pronunciation (UK): /ˈkɪpuː/

Origin and Usage: The word "quipu" comes from the Quechua word "khipu" which means "knot". Quipus were used in ancient Andean cultures for record-keeping purposes, particularly for numerical data such as taxes and census data. They were made of cords of different colors and lengths, with knots tied at different intervals to represent different numbers or types of information.

Synonyms: Knot record, knot writing, talking knots

Related Words: Kibei, quell, quern, queys, quids

Example Sentences:

1. The quipu was an important tool for record-keeping in ancient Andean cultures.
2. Archaeologists have found many quipus in ancient Inca sites.
3. The knots on the quipu were used to represent different numbers and types of information.
4. Some historians believe that quipus were also used for non-numerical data such as stories and songs.
5. Despite the importance of quipus in ancient Andean cultures, their precise meaning and use is still not fully understood.