Definition

Noun: 1. A member of a Native American people historically located in the Arkansas River valley: The Quapaw are a people of the Siouan language family. 2. The Dhegiha dialect spoken by the Quapaw people: This refers to the specific language variety used by this group.

Usage

The word "Quapaw" is used as a proper noun to refer to the people or their language. It is typically capitalized. * As a demonym (for the people): The Quapaw were known as the "downstream people." * As a language name: Few fluent speakers of Quapaw remain today.

Examples

• The Quapaw historically lived in villages along the Mississippi and Arkansas rivers.
• Efforts are being made to revitalize the Quapaw language.
• He is a citizen of the Quapaw Nation.

Advanced Usage

• Quapaw can function attributively as an adjective to describe things related to the people or their culture (e.g., Quapaw territory, Quapaw traditions, Quapaw ancestry).

Variants and Related Words

• Quapaw Nation: The federally recognized sovereign tribal nation of the Quapaw people.
• Dhegiha: The branch of the Siouan language family that includes Quapaw, as well as Osage, Kansa, Omaha, and Ponca.

Synonyms

• Arkansas: Historically, the Quapaw were also known by this name, which is derived from a French interpretation of a term for the Quapaw people. The state of Arkansas is named for them.
• Downstream People: A translation of the name "Quapaw," which contrasts with the "Upstream People" (the Omaha).

Noun

1. the Dhegiha dialect spoken by the Quapaw
2. a member of the Siouan people of the Arkansas river valley in Arkansas