Uncu

Uncu is a term associated with the Andean world, most commonly tied to a traditional Inca-era garment. In scholarly and ethnographic contexts, the uncu is described as a long tunic worn by adult men, typically made from wool or cotton and secured with a belt around the waist. Variants existed across regions and periods, with differences in length, sleeve presence, and drape. The garment appears in historical drawings, textiles, and colonial-era sources, and is studied as part of understanding Inca clothing, craftsmanship, and daily life.

In its cultural role, the uncu is part of a broader system of dress in the Andes where clothing conveyed function, region, and, to some extent, status. Descriptions and depictions of the uncu help researchers interpret social organization, material culture, and textile technology in pre-Columbian and early colonial contexts. While details about specific meanings and practices varied by locality, the garment is consistently referenced as a recognizable element of Inca-style attire in the archaeological and art-historical record.

Beyond historical studies, the word uncu also appears in modern usage as a surname and, less commonly, as a geographic name within Andean communities. In summary, uncu denotes an important historical garment in Andean studies, with the term also entering contemporary nomenclature in some contexts.