First Nations

American  

[furst ney-shuhnz] / ˈfɜrst ˈneɪ ʃənz /

noun

Chiefly Canadian.

1. the Indigenous peoples of North America generally considered distinct from the Inuit and Métis (often used attributively).

   The Ministry of the Environment has worked with the First Nations, local government, industry, and area residents to create a long-term plan for the region.

   Games, stories, and hands-on exploration of artifacts helped the students connect with local First Nations cultures and histories.

2. First Nation any specific Indigenous, non-Métis, non-Inuit ethnic or language group, band, or reserve-based community.

   The Little Saskatchewan First Nation is located near St. Martins, Manitoba.

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Etymology

Origin of First Nations

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

"Unpaid monies represent lost economic development and investment opportunities for First Nations communities."

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

Earlier this week, a group of First Nations leaders gathered at the Alberta legislature in Edmonton to call on the provincial premier, Danielle Smith, to quash any possible succession referendum.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

King Charles has "expressed his concern" over the Alberta separatist movement in a meeting with Indigenous leaders at Buckingham Palace, according to a delegation of First Nations chiefs that travelled to London.

From BBC • Mar. 12, 2026

Created by two First Nations women, the series pokes fun with affection in a very Canadian way, while also nodding to the darker historical realities of society.

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2025

All day, it had been a replay of that old First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Student Association debate.

From "Legendary Frybread Drive-In" by Cynthia Leitich Smith