Powwow

/ˈpaʊ(ˌ)waʊ/ · noun

Meaning

A ritual conducted by a Native American shaman..

Definitions by Sense

1. A ritual conducted by a Native American shaman.
2. A Native American shaman. [from 17th c.]
3. A Native American council or meeting.
4. (informal) A short, private conference. [from 19th c.]
5. (Canada, US) 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.
6. A tradition of folk magic practiced by the Pennsylvania Dutch.
7. (intransitive, of Native Americans) To hold a meeting; to gather together in council.
8. (intransitive, of Native Americans and by extension other groups, such as the Pennsylvania Dutch) To conduct a ritual in which magic is used.

Example Sentences

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.

On the way out, Octavio handed me a flyer for the powwow that listed the prize money in each dance category.

[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.

Maybe no one— except possibly Leah— powwowed anymore.

Synonyms for powwow

Antonyms for powwow

Related Words

Word Forms

• powwows
• pow wow
• pow-wow
• pau wau
• powwowing
• powwowed

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

Practice and Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions