Travois meaning

A travois is a sled used by Indigenous peoples to transport goods and belongings.


Travois definitions

Word backwards siovart
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division tra-vois
Plural The plural of the word travois is travois. This word does not change when pluralized.
Total letters 7
Vogais (3) a,o,i
Consonants (4) t,r,v,s

Travois has been a traditional Native American tool used for centuries for transportation and hauling goods. It consists of two long poles attached to a harness, forming a triangular frame that trails behind a person or an animal.

Origin of Travois

The word "travois" is derived from the French word "travail," which means work. Travois were widely used by Indigenous peoples of North America to transport belongings, supplies, and even sick or wounded individuals as they moved from one place to another.

Construction and Usage

A traois typically consists of two long poles made of wood or other sturdy materials. The poles are connected with a harness made of leather or other strong material. Goods or people are placed in a frame at the junction of the poles and dragged along the ground by a human or an animal. Travois were versatile tools used in a variety of terrains, from plains to forests, making them invaluable to many Native American tribes.

Significance and Legacy

The use of travois represented not only a practical means of transportation but also a cultural symbol among Native American tribes. The advent of horses among Indigenous peoples led to the integration of horses into travois usage, enhancing their efficiency and range. Today, travois are still used in ceremonial contexts or as a way to honor and remember the traditional ways of life.

Travois are a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of Native American peoples, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in a variety of environments. Travois remain an essential part of Native American history and continue to symbolize strength, resilience, and unity within Indigenous communities.


Travois Examples

  1. The Native American tribe used a travois to transport their belongings.
  2. The pioneers fashioned a travois out of tree branches to help carry their supplies.
  3. The dog pulled a small travois loaded with firewood through the snow.
  4. The archaeologists discovered ancient travois artifacts in the desert.
  5. The nomadic tribe relied on their travois for moving camp quickly.
  6. The museum displayed a replica of a Plains Indian travois.
  7. The horse struggled to pull the heavy travois up the steep hill.
  8. The travelers used a travois to carry their injured companion to safety.
  9. The artist depicted a buffalo hunt with warriors using travois to haul their kills.
  10. The outdoor enthusiasts packed their gear on a travois for the trek into the wilderness.


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  • Updated 20/05/2024 - 00:35:44