Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 22, Number 37, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 25 January 1901 — Alaskan Words. [ARTICLE]

Alaskan Words.

The most common word is “mush,” which means go on, march, travel. It is a corruption from the French “marchon.” The Canadian. Frenchman thus addressed his dogs when he wished them to move. When an Alaskan wants his dog to move he says “mush;” he never says “get out.” If he is driving a dog team he says "mush” when he wants them to start. If he has been on the trail he says he has been “mushing” or that he “mushed” in from the mines. “Cheechaco” is the Chinook Indian word for newcomer or greenhorn. It is the equivalent of the early California word “tenderfoot.” “Peluck” Is an Eskimo word, and means all gone. “Tilacom” Is a strong Indian word, and means both friend and partner. It is some one you have camped with and shared dangers with, for whom you would suffer aud who would suffer for you. “Skookum” Is an Indian word in general use meaning good. These words are In common use throughout Northwest Alaska. There are other native and provincial expressions, but they have not been dignified by common use to the extent of the foregoing.—Nome News.