squaw: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowOffensive/Derogatory
Quick answer
What does “squaw” mean?
A term historically used for a North American Indigenous woman.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A term historically used for a North American Indigenous woman.
The word has no significant extended meaning in modern usage and is considered dated and derogatory.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Usage historically more common in North American contexts, but its offensiveness is recognized internationally.
Connotations
Strongly derogatory and racist. Conveys disrespect and objectification.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary speech or writing. Its appearance is mostly in historical texts, older literature, or discussions about offensive language.
Grammar
How to Use “squaw” in a Sentence
N (as modifier)Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used only in historical, anthropological, or linguistic contexts to discuss the term's problematic nature and colonial history.
Everyday
Should be avoided entirely as it is offensive.
Technical
May appear in outdated scientific names (e.g., the bird 'Clangula hyemalis', formerly known as 'Oldsquaw').
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “squaw”
Neutral
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “squaw”
- Using it as a neutral or descriptive term.
- Assuming it is an acceptable translation for 'женщина' in any Indigenous context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is widely considered a derogatory and offensive slur against Indigenous women.
It has a history of colonial misuse, reducing diverse Indigenous cultures and women to a single, often sexualized and demeaning stereotype.
Use specific, respectful terms such as 'Indigenous woman', 'Native woman', or, where possible, the name of her specific nation (e.g., 'a Cree woman').
No. Its presence in historical material reflects the prejudices of the past. Using it today perpetuates that harm, regardless of historical context.
A term historically used for a North American Indigenous woman.
Squaw is usually offensive/derogatory in register.
Squaw: in British English it is pronounced /skwɔː/, and in American English it is pronounced /skwɑː/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
NOT RECOMMENDED. This word should be avoided and unlearned.
Conceptual Metaphor
N/A
Practice
Quiz
How should a student refer to an Indigenous woman in a research paper?