kiva

noun

ki·​va ˈkē-və How to pronounce kiva (audio)
: a Pueblo Indian ceremonial structure that is usually round and partly underground

Examples of kiva in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This pueblo is estimated to have 600 rooms, over 100 kivas, and a great kiva. — Jennifer Broome, The Denver Post, 11 Feb. 2025 My adobe-style casita came with a private balcony, gas-burning kiva fireplace and eye-popping view. — Tribune News Service, Boston Herald, 22 Feb. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Hopi kíva

First Known Use

1871, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kiva was in 1871

Browse Nearby Words

kiva
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Cite this Entry

“Kiva.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kiva. Accessed 24 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

kiva

noun
ki·​va ˈkē-və How to pronounce kiva (audio)
: a Pueblo Indian ceremonial structure that is usually round and partly underground

More from Merriam-Webster on kiva

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about kiva

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