How to Say “Sweetgrass” in Ojibwe

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wiingashk
The Ojibwe word for sweetgrass is wiingashk.
wiingashk refers to the plant *Hierochloe odorata* (also known by the synonym *Anthoxanthum nitens*), commonly known as sweetgrass.
Meaning: Hierochloe odorata (syn. Anthoxanthum nitens) (noun)

Did you know?

  • Because wiingashk is considered a living gift, it is customary to offer tobacco when harvesting the grass.
  • wiingashk is often paired with sage and cedar in ceremonial contexts, forming a trio of sacred medicines.
  • In many Ojibwe traditions, the scent of wiingashk is believed to be a way to attract positive spirits and guide them toward a ceremony.

Examples in context

  • Wiingashk dibiizigid.
    The sweetgrass is growing.
  • Wiingashk nibaajig.
    The sweetgrass is drying.

Example conversation

Two people are preparing for a ceremony.

  1. Miskwaa

    Miskwaa, wiingashk gashkomaan?
    Miskwaa, did you gather sweetgrass?
  2. Zhaawan

    Eyaat, wiingashk gashkomaan.
    Yes, I gathered sweetgrass.
  3. Miskwaa

    Miigwech, wiingashk nino-wiidigan.
    Thank you, that is my sweetgrass.
  4. Zhaawan

    Gichi-miigwech, Zhaawan.
    You are very welcome, Zhaawan.
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Anne Marilyn
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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