Mesoamerica

or Mes·o-A·mer·i·ca

[ mez-oh-uh-mer-i-kuh, mes-, mee-zoh-, -soh- ]

noun

1. Anthropology, Archaeology. the area extending approximately from central Mexico to Honduras and Nicaragua in which diverse pre-Columbian civilizations flourished.
2. (loosely) Central America.

Mesoamerica

/ ˌmɛsəʊəˈmɛrɪkə /

noun

1. another name for Central America

Derived Forms

• ˌMesoaˈmerican, adjectivenoun

Other Words From

• Meso·a·meri·can adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of Mesoamerica¹

meso- + America

Example Sentences

Ancient Aztec communities from the pre-Columbian period of Mesoamerica had a rich mythological codex that was also part of their ritual and sacrificial ceremonies.

From Science Daily

Avocados have been a part of the Mexican diet since ancient Mesoamerica, but the Hass – the most popular variety worldwide today – was bred in modern California.

From Salon

“A lot of people who study ancient Mesoamerica will be shocked when they see this piece,” said Cesáreo Moreno, the museum’s visual arts director and chief curator.

From New York Times

Pyramids in ancient Mesoamerica were usually built in phases over time.

From Science Magazine

The Aztecs are sometimes referred to as the hydraulic wizards of Mesoamerica.

From Los Angeles Times