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 is a great big red-haired man, and he hangs around that restaurant that is run by a man called Joe Canuck.

From Project Gutenberg

The Canuck felt perhaps the simpler joy that the average man has in any strange notion that he is able to grasp.

From Project Gutenberg

The little Canuck, as if he had now no further concern in the matter, sat down in a corner and smoked silently.

From Project Gutenberg

The little Canuck was the only one who suffered himself a contemporaneous consolation.

From Project Gutenberg

Jeff lighted for himself the cigar the Canuck had refused, and smoked down upon the little man.

From Project Gutenberg