Lakota

noun

La·​ko·​ta lə-ˈkō-tə How to pronounce Lakota (audio)
plural Lakota also Lakotas
1
: a member of a western division of the Dakota peoples
2
: a dialect of Dakota

Examples of Lakota in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
If Mark were Lakota, his name might have been Respects Nothing. — Ian Frazier, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 Guides point out natural highlights and boxwork formations and discuss the history and significance of the cave to the Lakota people. — Robert Annis, Midwest Living, 14 May 2026 At the time, the Lakota were one of the largest and most powerful tribal nations, with strong leaders in Sitting Bull and warriors like Crazy Horse. — ABC News, 25 June 2026 After a white calf was born in Yellowstone last year, Lakota spiritual leader Chief Arvol Looking Horse described the birth as a symbol that more must be done to protect the earth and its animals. — Nick El Hajj, Des Moines Register, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for Lakota

Word History

Etymology

Lakota lakʰóta, a self-designation

First Known Use

1918, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of Lakota was in 1918

Rhymes for Lakota

See All Rhymes for Lakota

Browse Nearby Words

lakmus
Lakota
Lakshadweep
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Lakota.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Lakota. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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