Wampum: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ต
wampum
[ หwรฆmpษm ]
Native American currency
Wampum refers to small, cylindrical beads made from shells, traditionally used by Native Americans as a form of currency and trade. The beads were often strung together to create belts and other decorative items, typically symbolizing important agreements or events. Today, wampum is also appreciated for its cultural significance and craftsmanship.
Synonyms
currency, shell beads, trade goods.
Examples of usage
- The treaty was sealed with a wampum belt.
- Traders used wampum in exchanges with Indigenous peoples.
- Wampum symbols conveyed messages and stories.
Translations
Translations of the word "wampum" in other languages:
๐ต๐น wampum
๐ฎ๐ณ เคตเคพเคฎเฅเคชเคฎ
๐ฉ๐ช Wampum
๐ฎ๐ฉ wampum
๐บ๐ฆ ะฒะฐะผะฟัะผ
๐ต๐ฑ wampum
๐ฏ๐ต ใฏใณใใ
๐ซ๐ท wampum
๐ช๐ธ wampum
๐น๐ท wampum
๐ฐ๐ท ์ํผ
๐ธ๐ฆ ูุงู ุจูู
๐จ๐ฟ wampum
๐ธ๐ฐ wampum
๐จ๐ณ ็ฆๅงๆฎๅง
๐ธ๐ฎ wampum
๐ฎ๐ธ wampum
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะฒะฐะผะฟัะผ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแแแฃแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ wampum
๐ฒ๐ฝ wampum
Etymology
The term 'wampum' originates from the Pequot word 'wampumpeag,' which means 'white strings of beads.' Historically, Native Americans, particularly from the New England area, crafted wampum from the shells of quahog clams. These beads were not only utilized as currency but also carried cultural and spiritual significance, often depicting important historical narratives. During the 17th century, as European settlers arrived, wampum began to be used in trade, leading to a complex relationship between Indigenous peoples and colonizers. The use of wampum as currency declined as metal coins became more common, but it remains an essential symbol of Native American heritage and history.
Word Frequency Rank
At rank #29,496, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.
- ...
- 29493 cotyledon
- 29494 meringue
- 29495 vitriolic
- 29496 wampum
- 29497 blackguard
- 29498 complimenting
- 29499 ecologist
- ...