How to Say “Medicine” in Ojibwe

By Karl Ryan • Updated October 3, 2026

mashkiki

The Ojibwe word for medicine is mashkiki.

mashkiki refers to a substance that promotes healing.

Meaning: substance which promotes healing (noun)

Did you know?

In many Ojibwe contexts, the act of gathering mashkiki involves specific prayers and offerings of tobacco to the plant.
The word can describe both a physical substance you ingest and the spiritual essence found within certain plants.
The concept of mashkiki is often tied to the role of the Midewiwin, a secret society of medicine people who preserve healing knowledge.

Example sentences for Ojibwe are not verified yet.

Example conversation

Nibi and Bemizii are talking about a cold.

Nibi

Bemizii, gimiwan mashkiki?
Bemizii, are you taking medicine?
Bemizii

Ee, nindaanishig mashkiki.
Yes, I have medicine.
Nibi

Aaniin mashkiki?
What medicine?
Bemizii

Gichi-mashkiki nindaanishig.
I have strong medicine.

Sources

Wiktionary, “medicine” translations and entries mashkiki, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.

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About The Author

Karl Ryan

Boozhoo! I'm Karl, an Ojibwe language enthusiast and self-proclaimed foodie, especially a lover of apple pie (ominjakendaagoziibingwebishigan). I spend my free time bicycling, hunting, or boxing—building physical "strength" or ogichi-taadine in Ojibwe. I also adore my little bear (makoons), my quirky pet cat. They say I'm like a "hunter" (ogichi-taadine) for words, collecting, understanding and sharing everything about the beautiful Ojibwe language and culture. Miigwech (Thank you) for joining me on this journey! Let's be explorers of languages together!

Karl RyanHelp make this guide better. Spot a mistake, know another way to say it, or have an example from real life? Share it below.

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