Seminole
/ˈsɛm.ɪ.noʊl/noun
A member of a North American Indian people originally from Florida.
Did you know?The term 'Seminole' is believed to derive from the Spanish word 'cimarón', meaning 'wild' or 'fugitive', reflecting the tribe's history of resisting colonization.
Etymological Timeline
Spanish Colonization
Spanish
cimarón
“Originally used to describe runaway slaves or wild animals.”
18th Century
Spanish
seminole
“Adopted from 'cimarón' to describe the people who escaped from other tribes and Spanish control.”
19th Century
English
Seminole
“Used by English speakers to refer specifically to the Native American tribe in Florida.”
Modern Era
English
Seminole
“Now recognized as a distinct Native American tribe with a rich cultural heritage.”