Apache

UK: əˈpæʃi | US: əˈpɑːʃi

Definition

  1. n. 1. A member of a Native American people inhabiting the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

  2. n. 2. (historical) A Parisian gangster or ruffian in the early 20th century (from French usage).

  3. n. 3. (informal) A helicopter, especially a military attack helicopter (e.g., "Apache helicopter").

Structure

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Etymology

The word "Apache" originates from the Zuni (a Pueblo language) term "apachu," meaning "enemy," which was adopted into Spanish and later English. The French usage for "gangster" emerged from sensationalized early 1900s Parisian crime reports, likening street violence to stereotyped Native American warfare. The helicopter naming follows the U.S. military tradition of using Native American tribal names for aircraft.

Examples

  1. The Apache people have a rich cultural heritage in the Southwest.

  2. Early 20th-century Paris newspapers depicted apaches as dangerous criminals.

  3. The AH-64 Apache is a formidable attack helicopter.

  4. Anthropologists study Apache traditions and languages.

  5. The term "apache dance" referred to a violent theatrical performance inspired by gangster stereotypes.