Word Study
[2x]
: Pâ Pæ Pè Pé Pœ P- P. P/ P< Pa Pb Pc Pd Pe Pf Ph Pi Pj Pk Pl Pm Pn Po Pp Pr Ps Pt Pu Pv Pw Px Py
potlatch
CIDE DICTIONARY
potlatch, n. [Chinook potlatch, pahtlatch, fr. Nootka pahchilt, pachalt, a gift.].
- 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. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
- Hence, a feast given to a large number of persons, often accompanied by gifts. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
potlatch, n. (among N. American Indians) a ceremonial giving away or destruction of property to enhance status.
Etymology
Chinook f. Nootka patlatsh gift
For further exploring for "potlatch" in Webster Dictionary Online
