How to Say “Miracle” in Ojibwe

By Anne Marilyn • Updated October 3, 2026

mamandawiziwin

The Ojibwe word for miracle is mamandawiziwin.

mamandawiziwin is used to refer to a wonderful event that is attributed to supernatural powers.

Meaning: wonderful event attributed to supernatural powers (noun)

Did you know?

Ojibwe is a polysynthetic language, meaning a single word like mamandawiziwin can function as an entire sentence by combining multiple concepts into one long chain of sounds.
In Ojibwe culture, events described as mamandawiziwin are often linked to the 'Manitou', the spiritual forces that inhabit all things in the natural world.
In many Ojibwe dialects, the concept of a miracle is closely tied to the word for 'wonder' or 'amazement', emphasizing the human emotional reaction to the event rather than just the supernatural cause.

Example conversation

Two friends are discussing a surprising recovery.

Makwa

Miskwaa, onji-apiwiwin goonii.
Miskwaa, it is a healing.
Miskwaa

Mamandawiziwin gichi-apiwin, Makwa.
It is a great miracle, Makwa.
Makwa

Gichi-miigwech aan Gichi-Manidoo.
Many thanks to the Great Spirit.
Miskwaa

Aawe, gichi-apiwin.
Yes, a great power.

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About The Author

Anne Marilyn

Boozhoo! I'm Anne, an avid writer and student of the poetic Ojibwe language. My curious nature feeds my passion for linguistics and I love the challenge of digging into dialect variation. Away from my educational pursuits, I find relaxation in exploring nature, seeking out the animals and plants of the Ojibwe words I study. You'll often find me with chocolate in hand, inhaling the scent of cedar and sweetgrass, and waiting to spot my favorite bird - the loon. Forever a believer in 'mino-bimaadiziwin' - the good life, I love to share my linguistic findings in my blog. Miigwech!

Anne MarilynHelp 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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