Gilyak

[gil-yahk, gil-yahk]

noun

1. Nivkh.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Gilyak¹

< Russian gilyák; of uncertain origin, perhaps akin to Nivkh (Amur dial.) kil a name for neighboring Tungusic peoples (with the Russ noun suffix -( y ) ak, as in sibiryák a Siberian)

Example Sentences

The soul of the Gilyak is supposed to pass at death into his favourite dog, which is accordingly fed with choice food; and when the spirit has been prayed by the shamans out of the dog, the animal is sacrificed on his master's grave.

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The general conclusion to be drawn from the evidence is that the so-called 'Paleo-Asiatic' peoples of north-eastern Asia, i.e. the Chukchee, Koryak, Kamchadale, Gilyak, Yukaghir, etc. really belong physically and culturally with the aborigines of north-western America....

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The Russian ship Gilyak was hit by a shell, and lost several men.

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The only vessels that could therefore enter the river and bombard the forts were gunboats and destroyers; of these the Russians had three, Bobr, Koreelah, and Gilyak; the French, the Lion; the British, the Algerine, steel despatch boat with six 4-inch guns, and two destroyers, the Whiting and Fame.

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Among the Gilyaks the Bear is dressed after death in full Gilyak costume and 98seated on a bench of honour.

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