Wampum

Pronunciation: /ˈwɑːmpəm/

Definitions of wampum

noun Wampum is a traditional Native American currency made of beads or shells strung together, used for trading and ceremonial purposes.

Example Sentences

A1 Wampum is a type of traditional Native American currency made from beads.

A2 The wampum belt was used by Indigenous peoples to symbolize agreements and treaties.

B1 The exchange of wampum beads was an important part of intertribal trade in North America.

B2 Wampum belts were often intricately designed and held great cultural significance.

C1 Scholars study the history and meaning of wampum to better understand Indigenous cultures.

C2 The use of wampum in diplomacy played a crucial role in shaping relationships between tribes.

Examples of wampum in a Sentence

formal The wampum beads were used as a form of currency among Native American tribes.

informal I bought this bracelet made of wampum beads at the local craft fair.

slang Check out my new wampum necklace, isn't it cool?

figurative The wampum of knowledge was passed down through generations of storytellers.

Grammatical Forms of wampum

• past tense: wampumed
• plural: wampums
• comparative: more wampum
• superlative: most wampum
• present tense: wampums
• future tense: will wampum
• perfect tense: have wampumed
• continuous tense: is wampuming
• singular: wampum
• positive degree: wampum
• infinitive: to wampum
• gerund: wampuming
• participle: wampumed

Origin and Evolution of wampum

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Algonquian

Story behind the word: The word 'wampum' originates from the Algonquian language, specifically the Narragansett and Lenape dialects.

Evolution of the word: Originally referring to traditional Native American shell beads used as currency and for ceremonial purposes, 'wampum' has evolved to also symbolize peace, friendship, and diplomacy in Native American cultures.