I. ˈälˌmek noun
also ol·me·ca älˈmākə
( plural olmec or olmecs also olmeca or olmecas )
Usage: usually capitalized
Etymology: Spanish olmeca, of American Indian origin
: an ancient people of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec in southern Mexico antedating or being contemporary with the Mayas
II. adjective
Usage: usually capitalized
: of or relating to an early culture of southeastern Mexico characterized by stone and jade carvings : la venta