Numbers in Mapudungun
Numbers in Mapudungun follow a vigesimal (base-20) system, which is common among many indigenous South American languages. Spoken by approximately 200,000 people in south-central Chile and west-central Argentina, it belongs to the Araucanian language family, though sometimes considered a language isolate. The counting system is unique, combining base-20 patterns with specific words for units and multiples. Understanding the numbers in Mapudungun reveals insights into their culture and linguistic structure. From 1 to 10, the words are simple, but beyond that, the system incorporates multiples of twenty and hundreds, making it a fascinating example of indigenous numeracy.
Number system
Mapudungun uses a vigesimal system, where numbers are built around the number 20. Numbers 1-9 have unique words: kiñe (1), epu (2), küla (3), meli (4), kechu (5), kayu (6), reqle (7), pura (8), aylla (9). The number 10 is mari, and 20 is epu mari. For example, 6 (kayu) is a simple unit, while 16 is mari kayu, combining 10 (mari) with 6 (kayu). The number 35 is küla mari kechu, meaning 30 (küla mari) plus 5 (kechu). Hundreds are formed with pataka, e.g., kiñe pataka (100), and thousands with warangka, e.g., kiñe warangka (1,000). Compound numbers follow a pattern: 42 is meli mari küla, meaning 40 (meli mari) plus 2 (epu).
Number list (29)
Counting rules
Counting units (1-9)
Numbers 1 to 9 are unique words: kiñe (1), epu (2), küla (3), meli (4), kechu (5), kayu (6), reqle (7), pura (8), aylla (9). For example, 3 is küla, and 7 is reqle. These words are used as building blocks for larger numbers.
Forming tens
Tens are formed by placing the digit before mari (10). For example, 10 is mari, 20 is epu mari, 30 is küla mari, 40 is meli mari, and so on. For example, 18 is mari pura (10 + 8), and 78 is reqle mari pura (70 + 8).
Building compound numbers
Numbers between 21 and 99 are formed by combining the ten with the unit, separated by a space. For example, 35 is küla mari kechu (30 + 5), and 78 is reqle mari pura (70 + 8). 42 is meli mari küla (40 + 2).
Forming hundreds
Hundreds are formed by placing the multiplier before pataka (100). For example, kiñe pataka (100), epu pataka (200), and 300 is küla pataka. When combined with thousands, the pattern is similar: kiñe warangka (1,000), epu warangka mari (2,010).
Forming thousands
Thousands are formed by placing the number word before warangka (1,000). For example, kiñe warangka (1,000), epu warangka (2,000). Compound numbers like epu warangka mari (2,010) combine thousands with hundreds and units.
Unique features
The vigesimal system is evident in numbers like 20 (epu mari) and 30 (küla mari), showing a base-20 pattern.
Compound numbers are formed by placing the ten component before the unit, e.g., reqle mari pura (78).
Large numbers like 1,000 are expressed with borrowed words from Quechua: warangka, which is combined with the number word.
The system allows omission of the multiplier when it is one, e.g., (kiñe) pataka for 100, simplifying large number expressions.
The language's use of loan words for hundreds and thousands reflects cultural exchanges and historical contact with Quechua speakers.
Cultural context
The Mapuche people, who speak Mapudungun, inhabit regions of south-central Chile and west-central Argentina. Their culture emphasizes community, tradition, and connection to the land. Numbers appear in daily trade, rituals, and storytelling, often reflecting their worldview. For example, the number 20 (epu mari) may symbolize completeness, as the vigesimal system is common in their culture. Certain numbers might be considered auspicious or taboo, though specific details are scarce. Their counting system reveals a sophisticated understanding of numeracy, intertwined with their cultural identity and social practices.
Fun facts
Fact 1: The number 16 is mari kayu, combining 10 (mari) with 6 (kayu), illustrating the vigesimal pattern.
Fact 2: Unlike decimal systems, Mapudungun counts 20 as a key milestone, similar to the Mayan vigesimal system.
Fact 3: The word for 100, kiñe pataka, literally means 'one hundred,' showing straightforward composition.
Fact 4: The borrowed word warangka for 1,000 reflects historical contact with Quechua-speaking peoples.
Fact 5: The system can express large numbers like epu warangka mari (2,010), but data beyond 9,999 is limited.
Frequently asked questions
How do you count to 10 in Mapudungun?
The numbers are: 1-kiñe, 2-epu, 3-küla, 4-meli, 5-kechu, 6-kayu, 7-reqle, 8-pura, 9-aylla, 10-mari.
What number base does Mapudungun use?
It uses a vigesimal (base-20) system, evidenced by 20 being epu mari, 30 küla mari, and compound numbers like 35 küla mari kechu.
How do you say 42 in Mapudungun?
42 is meli mari küla, meaning 40 (meli mari) plus 2 (epu).
How do you say 100 in Mapudungun?
100 is kiñe pataka, with pataka meaning hundred, and kiñe indicating one.
How many people speak Mapudungun?
Approximately 200,000 speakers, primarily in south-central Chile and west-central Argentina.
Is Mapudungun related to other languages?
It belongs to the Araucanian family, but is sometimes considered a language isolate, with borrowed words from Quechua.
What makes Mapudungun counting unique?
Its vigesimal system, use of loan words for large numbers, and the pattern of forming compound numbers make it distinctive.