wapatoo

[ wop-uh-too ]

noun

, plural wap·a·toos.

1. an arrowhead plant, Sagittaria latifolia.

Word History and Origins

Origin of wapatoo¹

An Americanism dating back to 1795–1800; from Chinook Jargon waptu, wappatoo; further origin uncertain

Example Sentences

He can “root” like a hog, and will often plough up acres of prairie in search of the wapatoo and Indian turnip.

From Project Gutenberg

The wapatoo still grows in the ponds and lagoons of the island.

From Project Gutenberg

Their larders abounded with dried meat, meal, wapatoo, and camas root.

From Project Gutenberg