macumba
(məˈkʊmbə)
Also makumba.
[Pg.]
A religious cult-practice of the Negro population of Brazil characterized by sorcery, ritual dancing, and the use of fetishes. Also attrib.
| 1939 Peabody Bull. Dec. 8 The frenzy of a macumba or the tropical sensuality of a son. 1941 Survey Graphic Mar. 181 The religious macumba or candomblé found in the morros (the hills) combines Catholicism with African and Indian magic rituals. 1948 H. Mielche From Santos to Bahia vii, Once a year..for four days the city surrenders to the spell of Makumba. 1951 Smith & Marchant Brazil v. 145 Brazilian macumbas and candomblés are undergoing rapid changes. There is a curious fusion..with other religions and cults, especially with Catholicism and Spiritualism. 1963 Guardian 4 June 7/1 Some of the most striking scenes are depictions of the macumba rites. 1964 Listener 6 Aug. 211/1 They had penetrated a macumba temple in Rio de Janeiro. 1969 J. Mander Static Society vii. 211 The Brazilian North-East, where Voodoo or makumba cults flourish. 1971 Daily Colonist (Victoria, B.C.) 23 May 33/3 The people of Bahia are..devotees of Macumba, that unique north east Brazilian blend of voodoo and Christianity. |