ˈtēkē noun
( -s )
Etymology: Maori & Marquesan
1. usually capitalized : an embodiment of the male principle in Polynesian mythology often depicted as the first man or the superhuman creator of mankind
2.
a. : a Polynesian wood or stone image set up as a temporary abode or embodiment of a god or other supernatural power but not worshiped as an idol
b. : a Maori image representing an ancestor that is usually either large and of wood or small, often in the form of a pendant, and of greenstone
a greenstone tiki which has been in her family for many generations — Auckland (New Zealand) Star
— compare hei-tiki