1. Plural of potlatch; ceremonial feasts practiced by Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest in which a host gives away or destroys wealth to demonstrate status and generosity.
Usage: Primarily refers to the cultural practice of First Nations and Native American groups, especially the Tlingit, Haida, and Kwakwaka'wakw peoples.; The term comes from Chinook Jargon.

Examples

• The potlaches of the Pacific Northwest were important social and economic events.
• During potlaches, wealthy chiefs would distribute blankets and other valuables to their guests.
• Anthropologists have studied potlaches to understand Indigenous wealth distribution systems.
• The Canadian government once banned potlaches, viewing them as wasteful practices.
• Modern potlaches continue to be celebrated by Indigenous communities as expressions of cultural identity.