Reconstruction:Proto-Algonquian/ka·ka·k-

This Proto-Algonquian entry contains reconstructed terms and roots. As such, the term(s) in this entry are not directly attested, but are hypothesized to have existed based on comparative evidence.

Proto-Algonquian

Alternative forms

(alternative reconstructions) *ka·hka·kiwa, *ka·ka·kiwa

Etymology

Likely onomatopoeic.

Noun

*ka·ka·k- anim

(Central Algonquian) raven
(Eastern Algonquian) crow

Usage notes

Not present in Plains Algonquian.
In some parts of Eastern Algonquian, the term for raven is superseded by a derivative term (see Mi'kmaq gjiga'qaquj, Malecite-Passamaquoddy kci-kakak).

Descendants

Central:
- Cree: ᑳᐦᑳᑭᐤ / kâhkâkiw, ᑲᐦᑲᑭᐤ / kahkakiw
  - Plains Cree: ᑲᐦᑲᑯᐤ / kahkakow
- Fox: kâkâkiwa (“crow”)
- Menominee: kakakehsɛh (“raven”)
- Ojibwe: kakaki (“raven”), kakakiššinʔ (“raven”)
- Potawatomi: gagagshi (“raven”)
Eastern:
- Malecite-Passamaquoddy: kahkakuhs (“crow”)
- Massachusett: kongkont (“raven/crow”)
- Mi'kmaq: ga'qaquj (“crow”)
- Mohegan-Pequot: kôkôc (“crow”)
- Nanticoke: kuh!-hos (“crow”)
- Unami: ahas (“crow”)

References

Hewson, John (2017), “kaᐧkaᐧk-”, in Proto-Algonquian Online Dictionary, Carleton University, School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies