online vocabulary.com

Sachem - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A sachem is a leader or chief among some Native American tribes, particularly in the northeastern United States. The term denotes authority and respect within the community.

sachem

/ˈseɪtʃəm/ /ˈseɪtʃəm/

Definition:

A chief of a Native American tribe or a leader in the Tammany Hall political organization.

Synonyms:

chief, leader, headman, elder, ruler

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

follower, subordinate, underling

Common Collocations:

tribal sachem, political sachem, respected sachem, wise sachem, influential sachem

Derivatives:

sachemship, sachemships

Usage Tips:

Use "sachem" to refer to a Native American leader or a political boss in historical contexts.

Common Phrases:

great sachem, council of sachems, Tammany sachem

Etymology:

Derived from Narragansett "sâchim," meaning "chief" or "leader."

Examples:

  • 1. The sachem led his tribe with wisdom and courage.
  • 2. The Tammany Hall sachem wielded significant political power in New York.
  • 3. Tribal elders consulted the sachem before making important decisions.
  • 4. The sachem's authority was respected by all members of the community.

MORE VOCABULARY LISTS