DCHP-3

potlatching ((n.))

Esp. Pacific Coast
DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

Entry from the DCHP-1 (pre-1967)

This entry may contain outdated or offensive information, terms, and examples.

1an. — Hist.

the holding of potlatches (def. 2a).

See: potlatch ((n.))(def. 2a)

Quotations

1882
The question of "potlaching" has engaged the most serious attention.
1964
Potlatching also changed in character. Among the Kwakiutl at least, it became a substitute for war. . . . During the 1850's and 1860's warfare decreased and potlatching increased.
1bn.

the holding of potlatches (def. 2b).

See: potlatch ((n.))(def. 2b)

Quotations

1958
Potlatching is carried on at burials. As this was described to us it was merely a large, somewhat drunken party with no gift giving, but this report was from the Sisters and is probably not a full account.
2n. — Hist.

the holding of potlatches (def. 3).

See: potlatch ((n.))(def. 3)

Quotations

1891
If potlatching and old-fashioned dancing did not at once fall into desuetude, it was because both were countenanced by the North-West Company and, later on, the Hudson Bay Company.
1922
Smoking, drinking, potlaching, and Sunday work were prohibited.
1923
They will all come up the river again and spend several days potlatching.