Etymology Map
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Umiak

2 stages from Inuktitut to English.

Today it means a large, open Arctic boat traditionally covered in animal skins and used for transport or whaling

Where does the word "umiak" come from? It comes from Inuktitut umiaq, adopted directly into English (1750s).

1
Stage 1 of 2
umiaq
Inuktitut · pre-1700s
"a large open boat covered in animal skin"
named the large open skin boat paddled by women for transport and whaling
2
Stage 2 of 2
umiak
English · 1750s
"a large open Inuit boat covered in animal hide"
borrowed by explorers and whalers describing Inuit watercraft
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