DCHP-2
juggler [< Cdn F jongleur medicine-man < F "trickster"; mountebank] Obs. DCHP-1 (pre-1967)
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n.
an Indian magician or shaman who practises healing by means of charms and the exorcism of evil spirits or by practical remedies such as administering herbs and sweat baths.
See also: jonglerie jongleur medicine-man (def. 1a)
- 1748 These Juglers pretend to an intimacy with Vitico [Weetigo], erect a Tent which will just hold them, and is shaped much like a Butter-Churn; black their Faces, and then go alone into such Tent where they will make a great Variety of Noises in imitation of Animals, jump about, and make a great Stir.
- 1847 Like all the other Indians, they put more faith in their dreams, omens, and jugglers, in the power of imaginary deities of their own creation, and of their consecrated relics, to which the Canadians have given the singular appellation of medicine.
- 1748 These Juglers pretend to an intimacy with Vitico [Weetigo], erect a Tent which will just hold them, and is shaped much like a Butter-Churn; black their Faces, and then go alone into such Tent where they will make a great Variety of Noises in imitation of Animals, jump about, and make a great Stir.