Pronunciation: [nˈɒkəmˌɪs] (IPA) 
The spelling of "Nokomis" is derived from the Ojibwe language and is pronounced in IPA phonetic transcription as /noʊˈkoʊmɪs/. The first syllable "no" sounds like "no" in English, while "ko" is pronounced as "co" with a long "o" sound. The second syllable "mis" is pronounced with a short "i" sound followed by "s". The word has different meanings - it could refer to a grandmother, a female spirit or a personification of the earth.
Nokomis is a noun with multiple contexts and meanings depending on the cultural background, and its definition can vary accordingly. However, in this dictionary definition, we will focus on the meaning of Nokomis originating from the Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) tradition.
In Ojibwe mythology, Nokomis is a revered figure often referred to as the grandmother or the old woman. Nokomis represents wisdom, guidance, and nurturing qualities. She is regarded as a maternal and grandmotherly figure who is protective and caring towards her kin and community.
Nokomis also appears in the famous poem "The Song of Hiawatha" by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, which borrowed elements from Ojibwe culture. In this poem, Nokomis is the grandmother of Hiawatha, the central character, and plays a significant role in his upbringing and the shaping of his character.
Beyond its mythological and literary references, the term Nokomis is sometimes used colloquially to refer to a grandmother or an older woman who holds a respected and influential role in a family or community.
Overall, Nokomis encompasses the ideas of wisdom, guidance, matriarchal strength, and nurturing qualities, particularly within the context of Ojibwe culture and mythology.
The word "Nokomis" is of Native American origin, specifically deriving from the Anishinaabe language. In Anishinaabe culture, Nokomis is a term used to refer to a grandmother or an old woman. It carries a sense of respect and reverence for the wisdom and guidance that older women provide within the community. The term has also been adopted and used in various contexts outside of Native American culture, sometimes as a given name or in literature to depict a wise and nurturing female character.
