SINCE 1828

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wigwam

noun wig·wam \ ˈwig-ˌwäm \

Definition of wigwam

:a hut of the American Indians of the Great Lakes region and eastward having typically an arched framework of poles overlaid with bark, mats, or hides; also :a rough hut

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See wigwam defined for kids

Recent Examples of wigwam from the Web

Consider the repercussions when Achille Sel, who still follows Micmac lifeways, returns from a sojourn into the uncut northern forests and finds his wigwam burned, his wife murdered by English soldiers.

— william t. vollmann, New York Times, "Review: Annie Proulx’s ‘Barkskins’ Is an Epic Tale of Logging and Doom JUNE 16, 2016," 17 June 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'wigwam.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Illustration of wigwam

Origin and Etymology of wigwam

Eastern Abenaki wìkəwαm house

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1628

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WIGWAM Defined for English Language Learners

wigwam

noun

Definition of wigwam for English Language Learners

: a round tent that was used in the past by Native Americans as a house or shelter

WIGWAM Defined for Kids

wigwam

noun wig·wam \ ˈwig-ˌwäm \

Definition of wigwam for Students

:a dome-shaped hut formerly used as a house or shelter by some American Indians

Learn More about wigwam

See words that rhyme with wigwam Spanish Central: Translation of wigwam Nglish: Translation of wigwam for Spanish speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about wigwam

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