powwow
noun
No English definition recorded for this entry.
L325799 on Wikidata ↗verb
No English definition recorded for this entry.
L332559 on Wikidata ↗Wiktionary
Pronunciation: /ˈpaʊ(ˌ)waʊ/
noun
Etymology: From an Eastern Algonquian language, probably Massachusett pauwau (“he uses divination; he practices magic or sorcery”) or Narragansett powwáw (“sorcerer, shaman”), ultimately from Proto-Algonquian *pawe·wa (“one who dreams”).
- A ritual conducted by a Native American shaman.
- A Native American shaman.
- A Native American council or meeting.
- A short, private conference.
“While the powwow was going on the big woman came back again. She was consider'ble rumpled and scratched up, but there was fire in her eye.”
- A large gathering during which Indigenous songs and dances are showcased for an audience, essentially a recital or concert. Often also doubles as a fundraiser, or can be held in conjunction with a non-indigenous fair or exhibition in order to attract a large crowd, as at the Calgary Stampede and K-Days.
“On the way out, Octavio handed me a flyer for the powwow that listed the prize money in each dance category.”
- A tradition of folk magic practiced by the Pennsylvania Dutch.
verb
Etymology: From an Eastern Algonquian language, probably Massachusett pauwau (“he uses divination; he practices magic or sorcery”) or Narragansett powwáw (“sorcerer, shaman”), ultimately from Proto-Algonquian *pawe·wa (“one who dreams”).
- To hold a meeting; to gather together in council.
“[The] Indians saw everything that happened and powwowed all night, needing more than anything else the presence of Tecumseh. The most aggressive element was the Winnebagos, who insisted on attacking.”
- To conduct a ritual in which magic is used.
“Maybe no one— except possibly Leah— powwowed anymore.”
- To hold a private conference.