How Do You Spell SAGAMORE?

Pronunciation: [sˈaɡɐmˌɔː] (IPA)

The word "sagamore" is a Native American term that refers to a chief or leader of a tribe. The spelling of the word may seem confusing, but it can be easily explained with IPA phonetic transcription: /sæɡəˌmɔr/. The first syllable, "sag," is pronounced with a short "a" sound like in "cat," while the second syllable, "a," is pronounced with a long "a" sound as in "father." The final syllable, "more," has a schwa sound followed by a soft "r" sound. With practice, correctly spelling "sagamore" will become second nature.

SAGAMORE Meaning and Definition

1. Sagamore is a noun that refers to a title or position in Native American tribes, particularly in the Algonquian-speaking tribes of the northeastern United States.

   In traditional Native American societies, a sagamore was a chief or leader of a smaller tribal or village group who held an important role in governing their people. The title of sagamore was often acquired through lineage, with leadership passing down from father to son, although some sagamores could also be elected or rise to power through prestigious deeds and achievements.

   Sagamores were responsible for maintaining order and harmony within their community, settling disputes, making important decisions, and liaising with other tribal leaders. Their responsibilities extended beyond tribal governance—they were often regarded as spiritual figures as well, acting as mediators between their people and the spiritual realm.

   The word "sagamore" finds its roots in the Algonquian language, with different variations across different tribes, such as "sachem" among the Iroquois, or "saganore" among the Wampanoag people. These terms reflect the importance of the individuals who held these titles in their respective tribes and their significant role in shaping tribal affairs, maintaining cultural heritage, and ensuring the well-being of their community. Today, sagamore is primarily used in a historical or poetic context to refer to the Native American tribal leaders of the past.

2. A chief among some tribes of Amer. Indians.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for SAGAMORE

• hakamore
• aagamore
• zagamore
• xagamore
• dagamore
• eagamore
• wagamore
• szgamore
• ssgamore
• swgamore
• sqgamore
• safamore
• savamore
• sabamore
• sahamore
• sayamore
• sagamo5e
• seagamore
• sagamopre
• sagamoe
• sagemore
• sagamoze
• sagamose
• Sagarree
• sabatore

Etymology of SAGAMORE

The word "sagamore" has its origins in Native American languages, particularly Algonquian languages spoken by tribes such as the Massachusett, Narragansett, and Penobscot. The term "sagamore" was primarily used among the Algonquian tribes of northeastern North America to refer to a leader or chief of a group or village.

The exact etymology of "sagamore" is unclear, as it is a borrowing from Native American languages into English. The word has been traced back to various Algonquian sources, such as the Narragansett word "sachimmo" or the Massachusett word "sôgmoh". Both of these Algonquian words referred to a chief or ruler.

Plural form of SAGAMORE is SAGAMORES