warpath

[wawr-path, -pahth]

noun

plural

warpaths 

1. especially historically, the path or course taken by Native Americans on a warlike expedition.

warpath

/ ˈwɔːˌpɑːθ /

noun

1. the route taken by North American Indians on a warlike expedition

2. 1. preparing to engage in battle

   2. informal,  in a state of anger

Sensitive Note

See powwow.

Word History and Origins

Origin of warpath¹

An Americanism dating back to 1745–55; war ¹ + path

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. on the warpath,

   1. seeking, preparing for, or engaged in war or aggressive pursuit.

   2. in a state of anger or indignation; hostile.

see on the warpath.

Example Sentences

And let’s face it, that warpath may well end in the death of the American experiment.

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With Trump on the warpath against EVs, buyers and sellers in California watch warily as he tries to dismantle Biden-era incentives that supported the industry.

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The Associated Press story began: “Hang on to your scalps, Hitler, Hirohito and Mussolini, for 29 red-blooded young Americans are on the warpath … “

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That may be overly optimistic, but it reflects an enduring reluctance to proceed further down the warpath with Israel.

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Trump’s subject heading for one of his recent violence-inciting fundraising emails reads, “I’m on the warpath.”

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Related Words

• aggression 
• animosity 
• antagonism 
• antipathy 
• bitterness 
• enmity 
• estrangement 
• hatred 
• ill will 
• opposition 
• rancor 
• resentment 
• war