Yankee

 
Pronunciation: /ˈjaŋki/

noun

informal
  • 1often derogatory an American.
  • 2US an inhabitant of New England or one of the northern states.
  • historical a Federal soldier in the Civil War.
  • 3a bet on four or more horses to win (or be placed) in different races.
  • 4 (also Yankee jib) Sailing a large jib set forward of a staysail in light winds.
  • 5a code word representing the letter Y, used in radio communication.

Origin:

mid 18th century: origin uncertain; recorded in the late 17th century as a nickname; perhaps from Dutch Janke, diminutive of Jan 'John'