What is the origin of the word raccoon?

Answer 1

The mighty Algonquian Chief Powhatan spoke the word as arahkun, from arahkunem, meaning "he scratches with hands". Captain John Smith's version was raugroughcum. In the early 1600s, it became the English word arocoun and evolved into racoon OR raccoon.

Answer 2

The word "raccoon" was adopted into English from the native Powhatan term, as used in the Virginia Colony. It was recorded on Captain John Smith's list of Powhatan words as aroughcun, and on that of William Strachey as arathkone.

Answer 3

The word raccoon was adopted into English from the native Powhatan term, as used in the Virginia Colony. It was recorded on Captain John Smith's list of Powhatan words as Aroughcun.

Answer 4

from the Algonquin Indian word: aroughcun

Answer 5

Also spelt racoon, first English attest circa 1600, arocoun, from Algonquian (Powhatan) arahkun, from arahkunem (literal) "he scratches with the hands."