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skookum

noun skoo·kum \ ˈskükəm \

Definition of skookum

plural -s
: an evil spirit

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Origin and Etymology of skookum

Chinook jargon, powerful, evil spirit, from Chehalis skukm

2

skookum

adjective \ " \

Definition of skookum

1 : marked by strength or power
  • was a skookum eater most times, but he pushed his bowl away
  • —Arthur Mayse
2 : marked by excellent quality : first-rate
  • as handsome and healthy as skookum apples
  • —Time

Origin and Etymology of skookum

Chinook jargon

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