esquimaux

esquimaux

A group of esquimaux builds an igloo from blocks of snow.

Definition

Noun (plural: Esquimaux) 1. An earlier, now often considered dated or offensive term for the indigenous peoples of the Arctic regions of North America, Greenland, and Siberia. This term is largely replaced by "Inuit" and "Yupik" in modern usage, as "Esquimaux" is perceived by some as pejorative or colonial in origin. 2. A member of any of these peoples. Historically used in ethnographic and geographical contexts.

Usage Examples
  • (Historical reference to indigenous Arctic peoples.)
  • (Contemporary usage note.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Esquimaux" as a collective noun: In older texts, "Esquimaux" could refer to the entire group of Arctic indigenous peoples, often without distinction between Inuit, Yupik, or other subgroups.
    • The Esquimaux of Labrador were known for their skill in building igloos. (Historical description.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Eskimo (n/adj): The more common English variant of "Esquimaux," also now dated and often replaced by "Inuit" or "Yupik."
    • The word "Eskimo" has been largely replaced in official use by "Inuit" in Canada. (Terminology shift.)
  • Esquimau (n, singular): The singular form of "Esquimaux," rarely used.
    • An Esquimau hunter was depicted in the old engraving. (Historical singular usage.)
Synonyms
  • Inuit: A term preferred by many Arctic indigenous groups, especially in Canada and Greenland.
  • Yupik: A term for related indigenous peoples of Alaska and Siberia.
  • Native Alaskan: A broader, more respectful term for indigenous peoples of Alaska.
Related Idioms
  • No direct idioms. The term "Esquimaux" appears primarily in historical or ethnographic texts and does not have common idiomatic expressions.
Notes on Usage
  • Politeness and accuracy: Modern dictionaries and style guides recommend using "Inuit" (for peoples of Canada and Greenland) or "Yupik" (for those in Alaska and Siberia) instead of "Esquimaux" or "Eskimo." The term "Esquimaux" is now classified as dated, offensive, or a slur in many contexts.
  • Historical context: "Esquimaux" may still be encountered in older literature, museum labels, or academic works from the 18th–early 20th centuries.