Teco language

Mayan language

Also known as: Tektiteko

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

The Teco language, also known as Tektiteko, is part of the Mayan language family. This language family is indigenous to southern Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize. Teco is specifically within the Mamean branch of the Eastern Mayan subgroup. The Mayan languages have a rich history, with a complex hieroglyphic writing system used by the Classic Maya civilization, which was deciphered in the mid-20th century. This decipherment significantly advanced the understanding of Mayan civilization.1

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The classification and status of Mesoamerican languages
It is clear that the Huastecan branch was the first to separate off from the rest of the family. Next Yucatecan branched off, and then later the remaining Core Mayan separated into distinct branches. It appears that Cholan-Tzeltalan and…
Read More
It is clear that the Huastecan branch was the first to separate off from the rest of the family. Next Yucatecan branched off, and then later the remaining Core Mayan separated into distinct branches. It appears that Cholan-Tzeltalan and…
Read More