pow·wow
ˈpau̇-ˌwau̇ 
plural powwows
1
: a North American Indigenous medicine man
2
a
: a North American Indigenous ceremony (as for victory in war)
b
: a social gathering or fair among North American Indigenous peoples that usually includes competitive dancing
3
informal + offensive; see usage paragraph below
a
: a social get-together
b
: a meeting for discussion
Usage of Powwow
Use of the word powwow to refer generally to a social get-together or to a meeting for discussion is considered to be an offensive appropriation of a term of great cultural importance to Indigenous Americans.
powwowed; powwowing; powwows
: to hold a powwow
Note: Use of this term in contexts not relating to Indigenous Americans or their cultures is considered offensive.
Cite this Entry
“Powwow.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powwow. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.
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