The word chief has multiple meanings. When used to refer to a leader or ruler of a people or clan, make sure the word is appropriate, that it is actually used by that group of people. Don’t assume, for example, that the leader of an Indigenous tribe or nation is called a chief.
It should never be used as a nickname to refer to a Native man. “Being called ‘chief’ carries with it the same insulting, belittling sting for a Native man as being called ‘boy’ does for African American men,'” according to Native Circle, a website that seeks to educate people about Native American cultures.
Chief can also mean “one who is highest in rank or authority,” such as chief engineer or chief executive officer. It is frequently used in military titles such as chief petty officer and chief master sergeant. In recent years there have been efforts in some places, such as Duluth, Minnesota and Toronto, Canada, to remove the word “chief” from job titles, on the assumption that the term is offensive to Indigenous people. However, this disregards the etymology of the word (it dates back to at least 1300 and comes from Old French) and the fact that it is not used exclusively about or by Native people.
In slang, chief is sometimes used as a verb meaning “to smoke,” (usually marijuana) or used as a noun as a synonym for ” joint,” or marijuana cigarette. This is derived from the idea that when Native people smoked a peace pipe, the chief led the activity. This meaning perpetuates stereotypes. In general, avoid this usage, unless it is part of a quote.
