The usage of the word "tribe" by non-indigenous or white individuals is a subject of cultural and linguistic discussion. While the term has general dictionary definitions denoting any close-knit group of people sharing common interests or lifestyles (such as friendship circles or professional networks), indigenous scholars and activists often discourage using "tribe" casually for non-Indigenous social groups. This caution stems from the term's colonial history, its specific legal meaning regarding sovereign Native nations, and the desire to avoid cultural appropriation or trivializing indigenous identity.