eskimo vs inuit

[keannu]

Is it offensive to use "eskimo" instead of "inuit" as "eskimo" has the nuance of sledders? I haven't thought about this, so I'd like to know which they use more. This is never related to any ethnic prejudice or something. I'm just curious.

 

[BobSmith]

[nat]

I grew up hearing and using "Eskimo". I've only heard recently (say, within the last 10 years) that "Inuit" is preferred. Beyond that, I can not say. (note the capitalization of both words)

 

[konungursvia]

You're correct. Use Inuit. Eskimo is an Algonquin word for "blubber eaters", not very respectful (cf. Japan's term garlic-eaters for the Koreans they once colonized.)

 

[keannu]

You're correct. Use Inuit. Eskimo is an Algonquin word for "blubber eaters", not very respectful (cf. Japan's term garlic-eaters for the Koreans they once colonized.)

I lived in Toronto for 2 years, and I remember visiting Algonquin Park for maples leaves. You mean it's the term by Algonquin aboriginal natives or caucasian Canadians?

 

[SoothingDave]

"Algonquin word" means it's a word from that Native American language.

We don't call Native Americans "Indians" and we don't call Inuits "Eskimos."