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

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have taken a journey through First Nations Australians' history in Melbourne on day three of their visit to the country.

From BBC • Apr. 16, 2026

First Nations leaders in Alberta, a western Canadian province, have voiced their opposition to the separation movement, and some have filed legal challenges to effort.

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