Winnebago

/ˈwɪnɪbæɡoʊ/ noun

Definition

A large motorized recreational vehicle (RV) used for camping and travel; also historically refers to a Native American people.

Etymology

From the Winnebago people's name (from their language 'Ho-Chunk,' meaning 'people of the sacred voice'). The RV company (founded 1958) named their vehicles after the Native American nation, popularizing the term for all large motorhomes.

Kelly Says

The Winnebago motor home company intentionally named their RVs after the Native American nation, but few people realize the Ho-Chunk people were forcibly removed from their lands multiple times—so every 'Winnebago' on the road carries that tragic history in its name.

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