Indian country

American  

noun

1. (especially during the U.S. westward migration) any region where one was likely to encounter Indians, especially hostile Indians.

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Etymology

Origin of Indian country

An Americanism dating back to 1690–1700

Example Sentences

Ernie Stevens Sr. was also revered in Indian country, with leadership roles in places like Oneida, Navajo Nation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 7, 2025

“Genealogy in Indian country is very maintained — you know who you’re related to, you know who you’re not,” she says.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2025

“Our work for Indian country is far from over, but the progress we’ve accomplished under this Administration is historic,” she adds.

From National Geographic • Aug. 8, 2023

Ninety-five percent of Tulsa, though, is considered Indian country, according to the city’s court filing.

From Washington Times • Jul. 31, 2023

As they used to do long ago at night in Indian country.

From "The Killer Angels: The Classic Novel of the Civil War" by Michael Shaara