Arawak

[ ar-uh-wahk, -wak ]

noun

, plural Ar·a·waks, (especially collectively) Ar·a·wak

1. a member of an Indian people once widespread in the Antilles but now living primarily in coastal northeastern South America.
2. any of the related Arawakan languages spoken by the Arawak.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Arawak¹

First recorded in 1835–40; a self-designation of the Arawak people

Example Sentences

An Arawak term for house, referring specifically to a dwelling with an open shed attached.

From Project Gutenberg

If the Arawak was impatient of control, the Carib was even more independent.

From Project Gutenberg

No longer was it the gentle Arawak whom they encountered, but the ferocious cannibal.

From Project Gutenberg

I have stated that I am doubtful as to whether totemism exists in Arawak.

From Project Gutenberg

His women had provision grounds like those of the Arawak, possibly because they came from that stock.

From Project Gutenberg