México
Lemma Details
Translation: Mexico
Part of Speech: noun
Etymology: México comes from the Nahuatl language spoken by the Aztecs. It derives from 'Mēxihco', which referred to the place of Mexihtli (also known as Huitzilopochtli), the Aztec war and sun god. The name combines 'metztli' (moon), 'xictli' (navel or center), and 'co' (place), meaning 'place at the center of the moon' or 'place in the navel of the moon'. This reflects the Aztec belief that they were at the center of the world.
Commonality: 90%
Guessability: 90%
Register: neutral
Example Usage
Mnemonics
- The 'x' in México is pronounced like the Spanish 'j' (similar to English 'h'), which helps remember its Nahuatl origins where 'x' represented this sound.
- Think of the accent on the 'é' as pointing toward the center, reflecting the etymology of México as 'the center of the moon'.
Related Words, Phrases & Idioms
Synonyms
Cultural Context
México is a country with rich cultural heritage, including ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztec, colonial Spanish influence, and modern traditions. It's known for its cuisine, music (mariachi), celebrations (Day of the Dead), and art. The country has a complex relationship with the United States due to shared border, migration issues, and economic ties. The accent mark over the 'e' is important in Spanish spelling but often omitted in English.
Easily Confused With
Explanation: Méjico is an alternative, older spelling of México that is still occasionally used in Spain but less common in Latin America and considered outdated. Both refer to the same country.
Notes: The spelling with 'x' reflects the original Nahuatl pronunciation and is the official spelling in Mexico itself. The Royal Spanish Academy accepts both spellings, but México is more widely used internationally.
Mnemonic: México with 'x' is the modern, official spelling used in the country itself.
Explanation: Nuevo México (New Mexico) is a state in the southwestern United States, while México is the country south of the United States.
Notes: New Mexico was named after the country of Mexico when it was part of the Spanish territories in North America.
Mnemonic: Nuevo (New) + México = the U.S. state; México alone = the country.