SINCE 1828
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balam

noun
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ba·​lam | \ ˈbäləm \
plural -s

Definition of balam

: a supernatural being in Mayan religion that guards cornfields and villages the Mayas of Central America speak of Balam as a god of agriculture, describing him as an old fellow with a long head. He walks in the air and whistles as he goes—a much-dreaded nocturnal being— W. D. Wallis

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First Known Use of balam

1908, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for balam

Maya

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Cite this Entry

“Balam.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/balam. Accessed 26 Jul. 2021.

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