Glossary of Archaeological/Anthropological Terms

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Y

YUCCA __ Several plants that are members of the lily family. The plants grow throughout the Southwest at elevations of 1500 to 6000 feet. Plants are characterized by a clump of thin, pointed leaves at the base and a single flowering stalk. White flowers appear on the stalks each spring. The plant is important not only for its fiber but for soap obtained from the root and for the use of its seeds. fruits. and flowers as food.


Z

ZIGGURAT __ A type of step-pyramid temple built by the Sumerians 4000 years ago in southern Mesopotamia, from sun-dried mud bricks.

ZEBRA MUSSELS __ Increased activity of this organism seems to threaten shipwrecks in the North American Great Lakes.

ZEUS __ King of the Greek gods. Called Jupiter by the Romans. 
 
ZEUS-AMMON __ A combination of the Greek god Zeus with the Egyptian god Amun.

ZHONG (Chinese) __ Bell

ZODIAC __ The Babylonian and Greek signs of the zodiac were introduced into Egypt in the Greco-Roman Period. They were adapted into Egyptian imagery and used to decorate ceilings of tombs and temples, and coffin lids. Other cultures have also divided the heavens into zodiacs for related uses.

ZONE __ A geographic area characterized by some distinctive feature such as the flora, fauna, climate etc. 2. a particular cultural, geological or pedological layer or level. 3. an area on the surface of a ceramic vessel which is modified differently (eg. punctates, rocker stamping, painted, etc.) than the adjacent areas.
 
ZOOARCHAEOLOGY __ The study of faunal remains found in archaeological sites and their cultural significance.

ZOOMORPHIC __ "animal-like". refers to art-work or decorated objects with an animal motif or appearance.

ZOROASTRIAN __ One who accepts Zoroastrianism, a Persian religion founded in the sixth century B.C.E. by the prophet Zoroaster. It is characterized by the worship of a supreme god, Ahura Mazda, who requires good deeds to help in his struggle against the evil spirit Ahriman.

ZUN (Chinese) __ Wine vessel.


 

 
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