POTLATCH • DICTIONARY ONE.COM • Definition of Potlatch

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noun

Potlatch n.

Among the Kwakiutl, Chimmesyan, and other Indians of the northwestern coast of North America, a ceremonial distribution by a man of gifts to his own and neighboring tribesmen, often, formerly, to his own impoverishment. Feasting, dancing, and public ceremonies accompany it.

Hence, a feast given to a large number of persons, often accompanied by gifts. (Colloq., Northwestern America)

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Etymology of 'Potlatch'

Collaborative International Dictionary of English 0.48

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"Potlatch" Quotes from Famous Books

... amusements there was a potlatch when robes made of the skins of deer, wild sheep, marmots, and sables were distributed, and many of the fantastic head-dresses that had been worn by Shamans. One of ...

— Travels in Alaska • John Muir

... is an ill-mannered brute, who steals into your presence without warning, handles whatever he sees without permission, smokes if you allow it, and seldom, especially if a middle-aged or old woman, leaves you without begging a potlatch. He exhibits very little deferential respect for his superiors, seldom expresses gratitude for favors, and more rarely does them without expecting compensation. At their homes, however, there is much to be commended in their conduct. There they are generally ...

— Official report of the exploration of the Queen Charlotte Islands - for the government of British Columbia • Newton H. Chittenden

Words linked to "Potlatch" : ceremony, ceremonial occasion, fete