The English word squaw is an ethnic and sexual slur, [1][2][3][4] historically used for Indigenous North American women. [1][5] Contemporary use of the term, especially by non-Natives, is considered derogatory, misogynist, and racist. [1][2][3][4][5][6][7]

In its historical origin, however, the word squaw is perfectly innocent, as current dictionaries also correctly indicate: squaw comes from a language of the Algonquian family in which it meant "woman.''

Squaw is a term historically used in North America, particularly in the United States and Canada, to refer to Indigenous women, primarily those of the Algonquian and Iroquoian language groups.

The meaning of SQUAW is an Indigenous woman of North America.

Setting the Record Straight About Native Languages: Squaw Q: Why is the word "squaw" so offensive? Does it mean woman, wife, prostitute, or vagina? A: None of the above. "Squaw" is not an Indian word. It was probably invented by European colonists who …

Though you might see the word squaw in an old book, it's considered offensive nowadays — it's an outdated term for a Native American woman or wife. Squaw comes from the Algonquian word squa, meaning "woman."

Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the nation’s first Native American cabinet official, formally declared “squaw” a derogatory term and announced steps to remove it from federal …

SQUAW definition: 1. a Native American woman, especially a wife. This word is now considered offensive by many…. Learn more.

There are five meanings listed in OED's entry for the noun squaw. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence. squaw is considered offensive.

Feb 21, 2025 · squaw (plural squaws) (now offensive, ethnic slur) A woman, wife; especially a Native American woman.