noun

• A Native American shaman. [from 17th c.]
• (informal) A short, private conference. [from 19th c.]
  "While the powwow was going on the big woman came back again. She was consider'ble rumpled and scratched up, but there was fire in her eye."
• (Canada, US) A large gathering during which Indigenous songs and dances are showcased for an audience, essentially a recital or concert. Often also doubles as a fundraiser, or can be held in conjunction with a non-indigenous fair or exhibition in order to attract a large crowd, as at the Calgary Stampede and K-Days.
  "On the way out, Octavio handed me a flyer for the powwow that listed the prize money in each dance category."

verb

• (intransitive, of Native Americans) To hold a meeting; to gather together in council.
  "[The] Indians saw everything that happened and powwowed all night, needing more than anything else the presence of Tecumseh. The most aggressive element was the Winnebagos, who insisted on attacking."
• (intransitive, of Native Americans and by extension other groups, such as the Pennsylvania Dutch) To conduct a ritual in which magic is used.
  "Maybe no one— except possibly Leah— powwowed anymore."
• (informal, intransitive, often offensive) To hold a private conference.