I. noun
1. : a mound forming the foundation of a temple (as in Mayan and Aztec architecture) — compare teocalli
2. : a truncated American Indian mound believed to have been the site of an altar or rude temple
II. adjective
Usage: usually capitalized T&M
Etymology: temple (I) mound
: of or belonging to a culture of the southern and southeastern United States about 1300-1700 characterized by pyramidal mounds built as platforms for temples and by village-states, shell-tempered polychrome pottery, and intensive hoe agriculture