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Just like other anglophone nations, Canada has its own set of particular dialects or variants of the English language, which together are classified under the umbrella term, Canadian English. One defining characteristic of Canadian English is its use of specific loan words, vocabulary borrowed from other languages, particularly those of Indigenous origin. Here are some of the Indigenous words that are used in common Canadian English*:

*NOTE: These words are not necessarily unique to Canadian English. They are, however, commonly used in the English language spoken in Canada.

POWWOW (noun)

Arguably one of the most common Indigenous words used in Canadian circles, “powwow” is believed to derive from both Narragansett, an Algonquian language of southeastern Canada and northeastern United States, and Pawnee, a Caddoan language spoken in Western Canada and Central United States. Historically, “powwow” roughly translates to 1) “he/she dreams,” a reference to Indigenous healers whose duties included the interpretation of dreams, and 2) “to eat,” a word traditionally associated with large group gatherings where celebration or commemoration is held.

The meaning of “powwow” has changed much over the centuries, among different groups. Nowadays, “powwow” often refers to a dance tradition or competition among Indigenous members of either one or various bands and communities. A powwow traditionally signifies anti-assimilationist sentiment, celebrating the strength and resilience of Indigenous peoples’ survival in a colonial society. Individuals from other cultural and ethnic backgrounds are commonly encouraged to attend public powwows as a symbol of the peaceful coexistence of multiple people groups, as well as in celebration of the tradition and endurance of Indigenous culture. These powwows can be seen held on Indigenous reserve land, in city parks, on school campuses, in large gymnasiums or halls, on government property, etc. They take place across Canada at various times throughout the year, often to mark particular holidays, special events, learning opportunities, and more.

ADIRONDACK (adjective)

An adjective originating from the Iroquoian language of Mohawk, “Adirondack” is most commonly used in Canadian English to refer to a specific style of outdoor chair, which nowadays symbolizes the promising rest and relaxation of a Canadian summer. This is despite the fact that it is an American invention named after the Adirondack Mountains in New York.

Interestingly, “Adirondack” has not always had such a positive meaning, whether in modern-day Canada or the United States. Historically, the original Mohawk word was used by the Iroquois to derogatorily refer to Algonquians who ate tree bark during the winter.

MUSKOKA (adjective)

This word, while originating from the name of an Ojibwe chief (Misquuckkey, also Mesqua Ukie), is also an adjective used to describe the quintessential outdoor summer lounge chair of Canadian summers. Many residents of Canada interchangeably, though incorrectly, use “Adirondack” and “Muskoka,” but these are actually two different furniture styles whose details are found in the subtleties of geographic origin (Muskoka, Ontario), including in structural steepness and curvature, among others.

SKOOKUM (adjective)

This Canadian English word is most popularly used in Western Canada (see blog post: “37 Words Related to Common Canadian Geography”) to describe a strong, brave, or even monstrous person. The term derives from Chinook Jargon, a language spoken by the Chinook peoples in Canada and the United States.

SKODEN (slang)

Meaning “let’s go, then,” this phonetic phrase is used among many Indigenous peoples across Canada and the United States. While meaning might vary from group to group, generally speaking “skoden” is an expression that is used before engaging in a fight or other conflict. It can be used to tell another person that they are about to enter a physical altercation, or it can be used to rally people together for a common cause (e.g. political protest, social movement, confrontation, etc.).

Are there any Indigenous words used in your language? What are they and what do they mean? Practice your English by letting me know in the comments below.

RELATED ARTICLES

• 5 Indigenous Terms Used In Canadian English, Part I

• National Day For Truth And Reconciliation (coming soon)

• National Indigenous Peoples Day

• Indigenous

• Canada Day