potlatch: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Formal/Academic/Anthropological; metaphorical usage is literary or journalistic.
Quick answer
What does “potlatch” mean?
A ceremonial feast of some indigenous peoples of the Northwest Coast of North America, in which the host displays wealth and gives away gifts.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A ceremonial feast of some indigenous peoples of the Northwest Coast of North America, in which the host displays wealth and gives away gifts.
In modern usage, it can metaphorically refer to any lavish or ostentatious gift-giving event or a competitive display of generosity where status is gained through giving away wealth rather than accumulating it.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The word is more likely encountered in North American contexts due to its geographical origin.
Connotations
Equally specialized in both varieties.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general use, slightly higher in North American academic and historical writing.
Grammar
How to Use “potlatch” in a Sentence
[Subject] hosted/gave a potlatch.The potlatch was held/celebrated.to potlatch (verb, rare).Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “potlatch” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The chief would potlatch to affirm his standing within the community.
American English
- He potlatched his wealth to gain influence.
adjective
British English
- The potlatch ceremony was a highlight of the cultural year.
American English
- They studied potlatch traditions for their thesis.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Metaphorical: 'The CEO's bonus scheme was seen as a corporate potlatch, enraging shareholders.'
Academic
Core: 'The potlatch was central to the social structure and economy of the Kwakwakaʼwakw.'
Everyday
Very rare. If used, likely metaphorical: 'Their wedding was less a ceremony and more a potlatch of luxury.'
Technical
Specific in anthropology and ethnology.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “potlatch”
Strong
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “potlatch”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “potlatch”
- Using it as a synonym for any large party.
- Spelling as 'potlach' or 'potlacht'.
- Assuming it's a modern or common practice.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While it involves feasting, it is a complex socio-economic and spiritual ceremony central to the culture and governance of certain Northwest Coast peoples.
Yes, but only metaphorically and usually to imply criticism (wasteful, ostentatious) or to draw an anthropological parallel to status competition.
Yes, many Indigenous communities continue to practice and revitalize the potlatch as a vital part of their cultural heritage, despite historical bans.
Both involve giving, but potlatch is deeply embedded in specific cultural systems of rank, obligation, and reciprocity. Modern philanthropy, while it can enhance status, lacks the same formal, ceremonial, and community-defining structure.
A ceremonial feast of some indigenous peoples of the Northwest Coast of North America, in which the host displays wealth and gives away gifts.
Potlatch is usually formal/academic/anthropological; metaphorical usage is literary or journalistic. in register.
Potlatch: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpɒt.lætʃ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpɑːt.lætʃ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A corporate potlatch (metaphorical).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a POT where you LATCH onto gifts to give them all away in a lavish display.
Conceptual Metaphor
GIVING IS A CONTEST FOR STATUS; WEALTH IS A TOOL FOR SOCIAL POSITIONING.
Practice
Quiz
What is the PRIMARY purpose of a traditional potlatch?