How to Say “Spirit” in Ojibwe

By Anne Marilyn • Updated October 3, 2026

jiibay

The Ojibwe word for 'spirit' is jiibay.

jiibay is used as a noun to refer to a soul.

Meaning: soul (noun)

Did you know?

In many Ojibwe traditions, the concept of 'spirit' is not a single entity but is divided into several distinct parts that reside within a person, such as a breath or shadow.
The concept of jiibay is central to the 'Midewiwin', or Grand Medicine Society, which preserves the spiritual history and healing practices of the Ojibwe.
Rituals for the deceased are designed to ensure the jiibay finds its way safely to the west, the direction associated with the land of the spirits.

Example conversation

Winona and Bemizii are discussing ancestral teachings.

Winona

Jiibay gikinawaabi.
The spirit is watching.
Bemizii

Eyaat, jiibay nindoonjibaa.
Yes, I believe in the spirit.
Winona

Jiibay waasa gichi-apiitendaa.
The spirit is very powerful.
Bemizii

Gichi-miigwech, Winona.
Thank you very much, Winona.

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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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