Squaw: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ซ
squaw
[ skwษห ]
derogatory term
The term 'squaw' is considered a derogatory term for Indigenous women, particularly in North America. Historically, it was used by European settlers to refer to Native American women, often implying subservience or objectification. The word has roots in various Indigenous languages, but its usage has evolved negatively over time, leading to its rejection by many Indigenous peoples.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The term squaw is offensive.
- It's better to avoid using squaw in conversation.
- Historically, squaw referred to an Indigenous woman.
Translations
Translations of the word "squaw" in other languages:
๐ต๐น squaw
๐ฎ๐ณ เคธเฅเคเฅเคตเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Squaw
๐ฎ๐ฉ squaw
๐บ๐ฆ ัะบะฒะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ squaw
๐ฏ๐ต ในใฏใฏ
๐ซ๐ท squaw
๐ช๐ธ squaw
๐น๐ท squaw
๐ฐ๐ท ์ค์ฟผ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุณูู
๐จ๐ฟ squaw
๐ธ๐ฐ squaw
๐จ๐ณ ๆฏ้
๐ธ๐ฎ squaw
๐ฎ๐ธ squaw
๐ฐ๐ฟ ัะบะฒะฐ
๐ฌ๐ช แกแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ squaw
๐ฒ๐ฝ squaw
Etymology
The word 'squaw' originates from the Algonquian language family, where it meant 'woman' or 'female'. However, the term was adopted by European colonizers and has since taken on a pejorative connotation. As English-speaking settlers interacted with Indigenous peoples, they often used this term to define Indigenous women in a manner that reflected their own cultural hierarchies. Over time, 'squaw' became associated with negative stereotypes and injustices against Indigenous communities. As awareness grew about the implications of such language, many Indigenous groups and allies advocated for the abandonment of the term, recognizing it as not just flawed but harmful. Today, the use of 'squaw' is widely rejected in academic, social, and political discussions surrounding Indigenous rights.