WordGarden.iopowwow
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /pˈaʊwaʊ/
US
- /ˈpaʊˌwaʊ/
Meanings
Noun
(informal)an informal meeting or discussion; this extension of an Indigenous cultural term can be perceived as insensitive in some contexts
a traditional social gathering of Native American or First Nations people, often with singing or dancing
Verb
(informal)to meet and talk something over; this extension of an Indigenous cultural term can be perceived as insensitive in some contexts
Beyond the definition
A powwow is a gathering connected to the traditions of many Indigenous peoples in North America. Today, it is often a public cultural event with singing, dancing, drumming, food, and traditional regalia. It brings people together to celebrate heritage, community, and shared traditions.
In everyday English, "powwow" is also used informally for a quick meeting or huddle to talk something through. For example, someone at work might say, "Let's have a quick powwow about this." This use is common, but some people avoid it out of respect for the word's cultural roots.
The word "powwow" has a long and complex history. It comes from the Narragansett word powwaw, which referred to a spiritual leader or healer. English speakers later began using the word for Indigenous gatherings and ceremonies. Over time, its meaning broadened, but the word still carries strong cultural importance and is closely tied to Indigenous life in North America.
Today, a powwow usually refers to a cultural gathering where people come together for dancing, singing, drumming, socializing, and honoring tradition. Some events are competitive, while others focus more on community and ceremony. Many are open to the public, and they often include traditional regalia, food, and opportunities to celebrate and preserve cultural identity.
The word is also used in general English for an informal meeting or discussion, especially a short one held to solve a problem or share ideas. You might hear, "Let's have a quick powwow before we decide." Even so, because of the word's Indigenous roots, some speakers prefer to use terms like "meeting" or "huddle" in casual settings. In both uses, the idea is that people come together, but the cultural meaning of the original term is much deeper and should be treated with care.
Examples
- 1
Cultural event
We watched the dancers enter the arena at the powwow.
- 2
Festival activities
Many powwows include music, food, and craft vendors.
- 3
Informal discussion
Let's have a quick powwow before we call the client.
- Phrasehave a powwow
have an informal discussion
- 4
Workplace meeting
I need a short powwow with the team about tomorrow's schedule.
- Caution
For ordinary meetings, powwow is very informal, and some people avoid it because of the word's Indigenous origin.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- confab
- consultation
- strategy session
Contrast
- monologue
- Indigenous powwow
Used with (collocations)
- have a powwow
- quick powwow
- team powwow
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- powwownounverb
Forms
- powwowspluralnounverb
- powwowedpast tenseverbnoun
- powwowing-ing formverbnoun