potlatching
/ˈpɑtˌlætʃɪŋ/
noun
- A ceremonial feast or gift-giving practice among Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast, often involving the redistribution of wealth and the affirmation of social status.
- Potlatching was banned by the Canadian government for many years but has since been revived.
- During potlatching, hosts give away blankets, canoes, and other valuable items to their guests.
- The anthropologist studied the potlatching traditions of the Kwakwaka'wakw people.
- The act of giving away or distributing goods in a lavish or competitive manner, often to gain prestige or show generosity.
- Some companies engage in potlatching by offering huge bonuses to attract top talent.
- Her potlatching at the family reunion, giving everyone expensive gifts, surprised everyone.
- The billionaire's potlatching at the charity event included donating millions to local schools.
verb
- To participate in or perform a potlatch ceremony.
- The elders taught the younger generation how to potlatch according to their ancestral customs.
- Many Indigenous communities continue to potlatch today as a way to preserve their culture.
- They traveled to the village to potlatch with their relatives and honor their ancestors.
- To give away or distribute goods in a lavish or competitive manner, often to gain prestige or show generosity.
- She felt the urge to potlatch after her successful business deal, sharing her wealth with friends.
- In some social circles, people potlatch with extravagant parties and expensive gifts.
- The tech mogul decided to potlatch by funding scholarships for hundreds of students.