1. A spiritual and fundamental life force, object, or creature in the religious beliefs of Algonquian peoples.
Usage: Often capitalized when referring to a supreme being or the Great Spirit.; From Algonquian languages, particularly Ojibwe and related languages.
2. A supernatural being, spirit, or demon in Algonquian mythology.
Usage: Can refer to either benevolent or malevolent spiritual entities.

Examples

• In Ojibwe tradition, the manitou represents the sacred spiritual essence that animates all living things.
• The Great Manitou is understood as the supreme creator spirit in many Algonquian belief systems.
• Tribal elders taught that each animal possessed its own manitou, or spiritual power.
• The concept of manitou influenced early European understanding of Native American spirituality.
• Respect for the manitou of the forest was central to sustainable hunting practices.