Definition

Proper noun: A prominent 19th-century Lakota (Sioux) war leader and chief, renowned for his strategic military resistance against the United States government's forces during the Great Sioux War. He is most famous for his role in the decisive Native American victory at the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • Crazy Horse is a legendary figure in Lakota history.
  • The leadership of Crazy Horse was instrumental in the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
  • A monument to Crazy Horse is being carved in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

Advanced Usage

• "the legacy of Crazy Horse": Refers to the enduring cultural, historical, and symbolic impact of his life and resistance.
  • The legacy of Crazy Horse continues to inspire discussions about indigenous sovereignty.
• "in the spirit of Crazy Horse": Used to describe actions or attitudes characterized by fierce independence, resistance to oppression, or deep commitment to cultural preservation.
  • The activists protested in the spirit of Crazy Horse, defending their ancestral lands.

Variants and Related Words

• Tȟašúŋke Witkó: The original Lakota name for Crazy Horse, often translated as "His-Horse-Is-Crazy" or "His-Horse-Is-Spirited."
• Crazy Horse Memorial: The ongoing mountain carving in South Dakota intended to honor him.

Synonyms

• War chief: A leader responsible for military strategy and defense.
• Lakota leader: A general term for a person of authority within the Lakota nation.

Related Phrases

• "Like Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull": A phrase used to evoke the powerful alliance of two great leaders.
  • The two organizations united, like Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull, to oppose the new policy.

Related Idioms

Note: As a proper noun referring to a specific historical figure, "Crazy Horse" itself is not commonly used in idiomatic expressions. The idioms below relate to the concept his name evokes. - To stand one's ground: To refuse to retreat or change one's position, reminiscent of his resistance. - Despite the pressure, she stood her ground like Crazy Horse. - A last stand: A final defensive effort against overwhelming odds, alluding to historical battles associated with him. - The small company made its last stand against the corporate takeover.

Noun

1. a chief of the Sioux who resisted the invasion of the Black Hills and joined Sitting Bull in the defeat of General Custer at Little Bighorn (1849-1877)