Canuck

[ kuh-nuhk ]

noun

, Slang: Sometimes Offensive.

1. a term used to refer to a Canadian, especially a French Canadian.

Canuck

/ kəˈnʌk /

noun

1. 1. a Canadian
   2. (formerly) esp a French Canadian

Sensitive Note

The term Canuck is perceived as insulting when used by non-Canadians or when referring specifically to French Canadians. But among Canadians, it is sometimes used as a neutral nickname or term of self-reference.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Canuck¹

1825–35; perhaps ultimately to be identified with kanaka Hawaiian, South Sea islander (< Hawaiian; kanaka ), if the word once identified both French Canadians and such islanders, who both were employed in the Pacific Northwest fur trade; later reanalyzed as Can(adian) + a suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of Canuck¹

C19: of uncertain origin

Example Sentences

He had one assist and a minus-1 rating in the playoff series with the Canucks.

From Seattle Times

Hronek got Vancouver to within one with 4:36 left to play, and the Canucks kept the pressure dialed up until the final buzzer.

From Seattle Times

The Canucks replied with a power-play tally of their own at 8:45.

From Seattle Times

The Stars and Oilers blowing three-goal leads in their respective second round-opening losses to the Avalanche and Canucks also made some history.

From Seattle Times

It’s perhaps understandable that Blake has more questions than answers at this point since the Kings were expecting to be preparing for a second-round series with the Vancouver Canucks this week.

From Los Angeles Times