Definitions

1. noun

A member of the indigenous people of Japan, traditionally inhabiting Hokkaido and the Kuril Islands, and related to the Ainu language.

“The Ainu people have a rich cultural heritage and a distinct language.”

2. noun

The indigenous people of Japan, especially in Hokkaido.

“The Ainu were the original inhabitants of Hokkaido before the arrival of Japanese settlers.”

3. noun

The language spoken by the Ainu people, a language isolate.

“Ainuk, the Ainu language, is a unique and fascinating example of a language isolate.”