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Wigwam Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wigwam

[ˈwɪɡ.wɑːm ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

Native American

A wigwam is a dome-shaped dwelling used by some Native American tribes, particularly those in the Northeast. Traditionally made from bent saplings and covered with bark or animal skins, wigwams were designed for shelter and were often used as seasonal homes.

Synonyms

domed shelter, longhouse, teepee.

Examples of usage

  • The tribe erected a wigwam for their winter shelter.
  • Children learned how to construct a wigwam during the cultural festival.
  • Visitors to the museum could see a replica of a traditional wigwam.
  • The guide explained the significance of the wigwam in Native American culture.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • Wigwams, known as 'wikiup' to some tribes, served as winter shelters for many Native American groups, providing warmth and comfort.
  • Different Native American tribes used various materials for wigwams; for instance, some added reeds or grasses to the structures for insulation.

Architecture

  • Wigwams typically feature a circular base with a roof made of wooden poles and either bark or mats, allowing for efficient ventilation.
  • These structures can be easily assembled and disassembled, making them ideal for nomadic tribes who moved with the seasons.

Historical Context

  • Historically, wigwams were common among tribes in the Northeastern United States and parts of Canada.
  • The design of a wigwam reflects the environment and available resources, demonstrating Indigenous peoples' adaptability.

Pop Culture

  • Wigwams appear in various movies and books depicting Native American life, often symbolizing traditional ways of living.
  • The term has been used in modern songs and literature to evoke nostalgia for simpler, nature-connected lifestyles.

Origin of 'wigwam'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'wigwam' comes from the Algonquin word 'wēqwa'm', meaning 'a dwelling'.
  • Linguists trace usage of the term back to 1610, as European settlers encountered Native American homes.

The word 'wigwam' originates from the Algonquin language, particularly from the term 'wigwamen,' which referred to a dwelling or house. Historically, wigwams were used by various tribes across North America but were especially associated with the eastern woodland tribes, including the Algonquin. The natural materials used in their construction, such as trees, bark, and animal skins, were readily available in their environments. Wigwams could vary in size and shape, accommodating families or small groups, and were easily constructed and dismantled as tribes moved to follow resources or seasons. Over time, the use of the word has broadened, and 'wigwam' is often used in various cultural contexts to refer to indigenous dwellings, although in modern times, the actual construction of wigwams has diminished due to the adoption of modern housing.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,637, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.