skookum

[ skoo-kuhm ]

adjective

, Northwest U.S., Canada.

1. large; powerful; impressive.
2. excellent; first-rate.

skookum

/ ˈskuːkəm /

adjective

1. strong or brave

Word History and Origins

Origin of skookum¹

1825–35, Americanism; < Chinook Jargon: strong, powerful < Lower Chehalis (Salishan language of the Washington coast) skwəkwə́m ghost, spirit, monster (hence, apparently “fearsome” > “powerful” in Chinook Jargon)

Word History and Origins

Origin of skookum¹

C19: from Chinook Jargon

Example Sentences

Nearly $10 million will help the Lummi Nation return about 3.2 miles of stream habitat for salmon listed under the federal Endangered Species Act along the South Fork Nooksack River and Skookum Creek and enhance an existing hatchery.

From Seattle Times

“Winter surfing is tough because it is our storm season and conditions change very quickly,” said Steven Furio of Skookum Surf Co., a surf shop and school in Seaview, Pacific County.

From Seattle Times

Two miles into this mostly level out-and-back hike, a short side trail takes you to the base of 250-foot Skookum Falls.

From Seattle Times

We had declared a disaster in September 2021 after more than 2,500 chinook salmon — listed under the Endangered Species Act — died outside our Skookum Creek hatchery facility.

From Seattle Times

Near Greenwater, enjoy the leafy canopy, and pull over near the Skookum Falls viewpoint to catch sight of bright, blazing vine maples.

From Seattle Times