Canuck

American  

[kuh-nuhk] / kəˈnʌk /

noun

Slang: Sometimes Offensive.

1. a term used to refer to a Canadian, especially a French Canadian.

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Canuck British  

/ kəˈnʌk /

noun

1. 1. a Canadian

   2. (formerly) esp a French Canadian

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Sensitive Note

The term Canuck is perceived as insulting when used by non-Canadians or when referring specifically to French Canadians. But among Canadians, it is sometimes used as a neutral nickname or term of self-reference.

Etymology

Origin of Canuck

1825–35; perhaps ultimately to be identified with kanaka Hawaiian, South Sea islander (< Hawaiian; kanaka ), if the word once identified both French Canadians and such islanders, who both were employed in the Pacific Northwest fur trade; later reanalyzed as Can(adian) + a suffix

Example Sentences

Myers shared that talk of annexation has raised Canadian consciousness and driven a groundswell of Canuck pride.

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2025

The game was billed as the “Hughes Bowl” as Canuck defenseman Quinn Hughes faced his brothers center Jack Hughes and defenseman Luke Hughes of the Devils.

From Washington Times • Dec. 6, 2023

In his time at Canuck Place, Dr. Siden said, the facility’s focus has expanded, alongside palliative care, to include more symptom management for long-term illnesses — treatment that doesn’t cure young patients but elongates survival.

From New York Times • Feb. 17, 2023

Elias Pettersson was the last Canuck to touch it and was credited.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 27, 2022

My knowledge of Canuck French derives from motion pictures usually with Nelson Eddy and Jeanette MacDonald, and it consists largely of “By gar.”

From "Travels with Charley in Search of America" by John Steinbeck