Flathead

¹

[ flat-hed ]

noun

1. Also called Bit·ter·root Sa·lish [bit, -er-root , sey, -lish]. a member of an Indigenous people of northwest Montana.
2. a member of a confederated nation of Salish and Kootenay peoples, established in 1855 and located in northwest Montana.
3. a member of the Chinook people.

adjective

1. of or relating to any of the peoples historically known as Flathead or to their languages.

Flathead

²

[ flat-hed ]

noun

1. a river in SE British Columbia and NW Montana, flowing S to Flathead Lake and S and W to the Clark Fork River. 240 miles (385 km) long.

flathead

³

[ flat-hed ]

noun

, plural (especially collectively) flat·head, (especially referring to two or more kinds or species) flat·heads.

1. any of several scorpaenoid fishes of the family Platycephalidae, chiefly inhabiting waters of the Indo-Pacific region and used for food.

flathead

/ ˈflætˌhɛd /

noun

1. any Pacific scorpaenoid food fish of the family Platycephalidae , which resemble gurnards

Word History and Origins

Origin of Flathead¹

First recorded in 1530–40; so called from their supposed practice of binding infants' heads to create a longer, flatter skull shape; the peoples currently known as Flatheads did not engage in this custom

Origin of Flathead²

First recorded in 1825–35; flat ¹ + head

Example Sentences

The inaugural Festival, as per the website, “supports the local culinary scene in the Flathead Valley, from top local chefs to regional farms & ranches, to local culinary programs and beyond.”

From Salon

The event is meant to highlight the Flathead Valley and the greater Montana — what are some of the aspects of the food, the terroir and the other aspects of Montana fare that make it such a unique place to spotlight?

From Salon

Yes, the event is meant to feature Flathead Valley in the greater Montana and celebrate all the great things that are going on there, which are all 100% unique.

From Salon

One person said they saw a flash in Lakeside, Montana, that appeared to travel north over Flathead Lake.

From Seattle Times

You’ll need something to pry off the bottom cap, such as a small flathead screwdriver or a plastic tool known as a “ spudger.”

From Seattle Times