algonkian
|al-gon-ki-an|
/ælˈɡɒŋkiən/
Native American tribe and language family
Etymology
'Algonkian' originates from the Maliseet word 'elakómkwik,' meaning 'they are our relatives or allies.'
'Elakómkwik' transformed into the French word 'Algonquin,' and eventually became the modern English word 'Algonkian.'
Initially, it meant 'relatives or allies,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of a group of tribes and their language family.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a member of a group of North American Indian tribes originally inhabiting the region from the Atlantic coast to the Great Lakes.
The Algonkian tribes were known for their rich oral traditions.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a language family of North American Indian languages spoken by the Algonkian tribes.
The Algonkian language family includes many dialects.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/06/20 17:21