potlatch

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Word: Potlatch

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A potlatch is a ceremonial feast celebrated by some Indigenous peoples of the northwestern coast of North America. During this event, the host gives gifts to guests, which can include tribesmen and others, to show their wealth and status. It often marks important occasions like marriages or the appointment of a chief.

Usage Instructions:

• When to Use: You can use "potlatch" when discussing cultural practices, ceremonies, or events related to Indigenous peoples of the northwestern coast of North America.
• Context: It is often used in discussions about anthropology, history, or cultural studies.

Example Sentence:

• "The community held a potlatch to celebrate the wedding of their new chief, where he gave away many gifts to honor his guests."

Advanced Usage:

In more complex discussions, "potlatch" can be used to explore themes of wealth distribution, social status, and cultural practices. For example: - "The potlatch ceremony illustrates the intricate social dynamics within the tribe, where the act of giving can sometimes lead to financial ruin for the host."

Word Variants:

• Potlatcher (noun): A person who participates in a potlatch or who practices this tradition.

Different Meanings:

While "potlatch" primarily refers to the ceremonial feast, it can also imply the broader cultural significance of gift-giving and social status among the Indigenous tribes.

Synonyms:

• Feast
• Celebration
• Ceremony

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "potlatch," but you might encounter phrases like "give generously" or "display one's wealth" in discussions about similar cultural practices.

Summary:

To summarize, a potlatch is a significant and traditional ceremony among certain Indigenous groups, focusing on gift-giving to demonstrate wealth and celebrate important life events.

Academic

Noun

1. a ceremonial feast held by some Indians of the northwestern coast of North America (as in celebrating a marriage or a new accession) in which the host gives gifts to tribesmen and others to display his superior wealth (sometimes, formerly, to his own impoverishment)