Onondaga

[ on-uhn-daw-guh, -dah-, -dey- ]

noun

, plural On·on·da·gas, (especially collectively) On·on·da·ga

1. a member of a tribe of Iroquoian Indians formerly inhabiting the region of Onondaga Lake.
2. the dialect of the Seneca language spoken by these Indians.
3. Lake, a salt lake in central New York. 5 miles (8 km) long; 1 mile (1.6 km) wide.

Onondaga

/ ˌɒnənˈdɑːɡə /

noun

1. Lake Onondaga
   a salt lake in central New York State. Area: about 13 sq km (5 sq miles)
2. -gas-ga a member of a North American Indian Iroquois people formerly living between Lake Champlain and the St Lawrence River
3. the language of this people, belonging to the Iroquoian family

Other Words From

• Onon·dagan adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of Onondaga¹

From the Onondaga word onǫ́·tàʔke on the hill, the name of the main Onondaga town, at successive locations

Word History and Origins

Origin of Onondaga¹

from Iroquois onõtáge', literally: on the top of the hill (the name of their principal village)

Example Sentences

The council-fire is covered at Onondaga; but it shall burn again at Thendara.

From Project Gutenberg

There was a French party and an English party in every town, especially in Onondaga, the centre of intrigue.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Gaylord died at his beautiful residence of Limerock Farm, Onondaga county, on the 27th ultimo, after a brief illness.

From Project Gutenberg

The council which met some days after, included the delegation from Onondaga.

From Project Gutenberg

He grasped the brawny arms of the Onondaga and drew him toward him.

From Project Gutenberg