Mayan

This term serves as both a descriptor for the vast cultural and linguistic heritage of the Maya civilization and a label for the individuals who belong to this ethnic group. It carries a strong connotation of antiquity and architectural grandeur, often evoking images of limestone pyramids and complex astronomical calendars.

While used interchangeably with Maya in common speech, some scholars prefer Maya as the adjective and Mayan specifically for the languages. As a noun referring to people, it follows standard English pluralization rules, though it refers to a diverse group of contemporary descendants as well as ancient ancestors.