Petate


A petate is a bedroll used in Central America and Mexico. Its name comes from the Náhuatl word petlatl. The petate is woven from the fibers of the Palm of petate. The Royal Spanish Academy defines it as a bed. Generally petates are woven in quadrangular forms, though not to any exact dimensions.

Use

The main use of the petate is for sleeping. It can be extended on the ground for lying down or sleeping. During the day the petate normally rolls up and hangs from the wall, freeing up space in the room. In very warm places it is used to sleep outdoors. Also it is used for drying seeds, grains, tortillas, and other foodstuffs in the sun, to prevent their touching the ground. Other items made from the fibers of the palm are known as "artesanias de petate" including toys, dolls, masks, hats, and baskets.

Colloquialisms

The petate's diverse characteristics and uses have inspired a number of colorful Spanish idioms: