potlatch etymology

Etymology:

  • From Chinook Jargon "potlatch", literally "to give away".

Meaning and Origin:

A potlatch is a ceremonial feast and gift-giving event practiced by indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast of North America, including the Coast Salish, Haida, Kwakiutl, Tlingit, and others.

  • Potlatches have been an integral part of indigenous cultures for centuries: They serve various purposes, including:

    • Displaying wealth and status
    • Redistributing wealth
    • Forging alliances and solidifying relationships
    • Honoring ancestors and significant events
    • Passing on cultural knowledge and traditions
  • Historically, potlatches were elaborate affairs that could last several days or even weeks: They involved extensive preparation, including the gathering of food, gifts, and the construction of large structures.

  • Potlatches were often competitive events: Hosts competed to outdo each other in the value and prestige of the gifts they distributed.

  • In the late 19th century, potlatches were banned by the Canadian government in an attempt to suppress indigenous culture: The ban remained in effect until 1951, when it was lifted.

  • Today, potlatches continue to be an important cultural practice: They are held for a variety of reasons and have adapted to modern times while retaining their traditional significance.

potlatch relate terms

  • feast

    Etymology The word feast derives from the Old English word fæsten which meant fas

  • ceremony

    Etymology and Meaning The word ceremony comes from the Latin word caerimonia which

  • ceremonial

    Etymology The word ceremonial comes from the Latin word caerimonia which means reli

  • observance

    Etymology Late Middle English from Old French observ a unce from Late Latin observanti

  • bunting

    Etymology The word bunting has two distinct origins Old English bunt meaning a f

  • solemn

    Etymology The word solemn comes from the Latin word solemnis which originally meant

  • rhythm

    Etymology Old French rithme Latin rhythmus Greek ῥυθμός rhythmos Meaning

  • dispense

    Etymology Dispense derives from the Late Latin word dispensare meaning to weigh out

  • brother

    Etymology The word brother is derived from the Proto Indo European root bhrāter mea