Canuck

American  

[kuh-nuhk] / kəˈnʌk /

noun

Slang: Sometimes Offensive.

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

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Canuck British  

/ kəˈnʌk /

noun

1. 1. a Canadian

   2. (formerly) esp a French Canadian

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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.

Etymology

Origin of Canuck

1825–35; perhaps ultimately to be identified with kanaka Hawaiian, South Sea islander (< Hawaiian; see 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

Example Sentences

Myers shared that talk of annexation has raised Canadian consciousness and driven a groundswell of Canuck pride.

From Salon • Apr. 27, 2025

As a 12-year-old from Calgary, Canada, the dancer and budding singer-songwriter won third place on the 2016 season of “So You Think You Can Dance” and performed with fellow Canuck Justin Bieber.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 6, 2023

In his time at Canuck Place, Dr. Siden said, the facility’s focus has expanded, alongside palliative care, to include more symptom management for long-term illnesses — treatment that doesn’t cure young patients but elongates survival.

From New York Times • Feb. 17, 2023

Travis Konency got behind the Canuck defense and passed to Couturier who beat Halak on the far side.

From Seattle Times • Oct. 28, 2021

My knowledge of Canuck French derives from motion pictures usually with Nelson Eddy and Jeanette MacDonald, and it consists largely of “By gar.”

From "Travels with Charley in Search of America" by John Steinbeck