noun
sachem
Sachem (noun) means the leader of a Native American tribe or group of tribes, particularly among Algonquian peoples.
noun
1
The leader of a Native American tribe or group of tribes, particularly among Algonquian peoples.
"If a sachem was too harsh, a tribesman might leave and join another tribe."
— Howard S. Russell, Indian New England Before the Mayflower (1983)
2
A person in charge; a leader.
3
A well-respected, high-standing member of a group or community.
4
A senior official within the Tammany Hall political organisation.
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like sachem.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Etymology
English borrowed sachem from Narragansett sachem; compare Mi'kmaq saqamaw (“chief”) and Unami sakima (“chief”), all of which go back to Proto-Algonquian *sa·kima·wa. The word is a doublet of sagamore.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of sachem?
"sachem" (noun) means the leader of a Native American tribe or group of tribes, particularly among Algonquian peoples.
What is another word for sachem?
Other words for "sachem" include sagamore, commander, manager, master, governor, leader.
What are the different meanings of sachem?
"sachem" has 3 main meanings: 1. The leader of a Native American tribe or group of tribes, particularly among Algonquian peoples; 2. A person in charge; a leader; 3. A well-respected, high-standing member of a group or community.
