Indian country

American  

noun

1. (especially during the U.S. westward migration) any region where one was likely to encounter Indians, especially hostile Indians.

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Etymology

Origin of Indian country

An Americanism dating back to 1690–1700

Example Sentences

Ernie Stevens Sr. was also revered in Indian country, with leadership roles in places like Oneida, Navajo Nation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 7, 2025

“Gaming in Indian country can be a tide that raises all of our canoes,” insisted Potter, who appeared at times to fight back tears as he spoke at the Sacramento hearing.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 19, 2023

“Our work for Indian country is far from over, but the progress we’ve accomplished under this Administration is historic,” she adds.

From National Geographic • Aug. 8, 2023

Ninety-five percent of Tulsa, though, is considered Indian country, according to the city’s court filing.

From Washington Times • Jul. 31, 2023

Woolf hustled him deftly; having begun his career booting horses through walk-up match races in Indian country, he knew how to hit the gas on a horse.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand