Tsimshian

[ tsim-shee-uhn ]

noun

, plural Tsim·shi·ans, (especially collectively) Tsim·shi·an

1. a member of a group of Indigenous peoples of the coastal region of British Columbia and Annette Island, Alaska.
2. the languages of the Tsimshian, sometimes considered part of the Penutian family.

adjective

1. of or relating to the Tsimshian or their languages.

Tsimshian

/ ˈtʃɪmʃɪən /

noun

1. a member of a Native Canadian people of northern British Columbia
2. the Penutian language of this people

Word History and Origins

Origin of Tsimshian¹

First recorded in 1830–40; from Tsimshian; literally, “inside the Skeena River”; Skeena ( def )

Word History and Origins

Origin of Tsimshian¹

C19: from Tsimshian, inside the Skeena River

Example Sentences

A member of the Alaska Tsimshian tribe, he’s written a book under his tribal storyteller name, Ravenspeaker.

From Seattle Times

“The best thing about this, the result of these consultants from the different native tribes,” said David Boxley, representing the Tsimshian tribe, “is that it’s our voice speaking.”

From Washington Times

This summer, the Sealaska Heritage Institute will open its new Arts Campus, where visitors can experience Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian art with basketry, textile weaving and printmaking programs.

From Seattle Times

Tlingit, Haida and Tsimshian master carvers will carve their poles in communities around the Southeast, teaching apprentices the art.

From Seattle Times

The authorities evicted them, and canoe loads of infected but not yet symptomatic Kwakwakawakw, Heiltsuk, Haida, Tsimshian and Tlingit sailed to their coastal homelands.

From Seattle Times