1. Plural of katchina; spirits or deities in Pueblo Indian (especially Hopi and Zuni) religious beliefs, often represented by masked dancers in ceremonial performances.
Usage: Also spelled 'kachina' or 'katcina'; Refers to both the spiritual beings and the carved wooden dolls or masks used in rituals; Primarily used in anthropological and cultural contexts
2. Carved wooden dolls or figurines representing katchina spirits, traditionally made and given as gifts by Pueblo peoples.
Usage: Often called 'katchina dolls'; Valued as cultural artifacts and collectibles

Examples

• The museum's collection includes authentic katchinas from the Hopi people.
• During the ceremony, dancers wearing katchinas masks performed traditional rituals.
• Carved katchinas are important cultural objects in Pueblo communities.
• The anthropologist studied the symbolism of different katchinas in Zuni religion.
• Children received katchinas dolls as gifts during the seasonal celebrations.
• Katchinas represent the spiritual connection between the people and the natural world.