First nation
adj, noun ·Rare ·Advanced level
Definitions
- 1 A community of indigenous peoples of Canada (typically not including the Inuit or Metis), especially one officially recognized by the federal government. Canada, in-plural, often
"Today we speak as the descendants of our grandfathers who signed treaties with the Commissioners representing Her Majesty Queen Victoria in the late 1800s. […] The various governments of this country have made attempts to abrogate our treaties in one way or another. In spite of this, our treaties stand stronger than ever because we have had to rise as First Nations to defend them."
- 2 A community or settlement of indigenous peoples of any country or region. broadly, in-plural, often, uncommon
- 3 A community or settlement of indigenous peoples of any country or region.; A community of indigenous (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) peoples of Australia; a group of Indigenous Australians. Australia, broadly, in-plural, often, uncommon
- 1 Alternative form of First Nations alt-of, alternative, in-plural, not-comparable, often
"First Nation leaders in Ontario will support demonstrations and protests, until six band councillors are released from jail."
Synonyms
All synonymsExample
More examples"Today we speak as the descendants of our grandfathers who signed treaties with the Commissioners representing Her Majesty Queen Victoria in the late 1800s. […] The various governments of this country have made attempts to abrogate our treaties in one way or another. In spite of this, our treaties stand stronger than ever because we have had to rise as First Nations to defend them."
Etymology
From first (adjective) + nation, coined in the late 1970s in place of the word Indian which had become regarded by some as derogatory (though it is still used: see the usage note).