(n.) A contrivance employed by the ancient Peruvians, Mexicans, etc., as a substitute for writing and figures, consisting of a main cord, from which hung at certain distances smaller cords of various colors, each having a special meaning, as silver, gold, corn, soldiers. etc. Single, double, and triple knots were tied in the smaller cords, representing definite numbers. It was chiefly used for arithmetical purposes, and to register important facts and events.
Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary
| APA | Webster's. (2011). quipu. Retrieved September 25, 2026, from http://smartdefine.org/quipu/definitions/2052066 |
| Chicago | Webster's. 2011. "quipu" http://smartdefine.org/quipu/definitions/2052066 (accessed September 25, 2026). |
| Harvard | Webster's 2011, quipu, Smart Define, viewed 25 September, 2026, <http://smartdefine.org/quipu/definitions/2052066>. |
| MLA | Webster's. "quipu" 27 May 2011. Web. 25 September 2026. <http://smartdefine.org/quipu/definitions/2052066> |