The Origin of Saskatchewan's Name: From Cree 'Kisiskāciwani-sīpiy'

The name "Saskatchewan" derives from the Cree phrase kisiskāciwani-sīpiy, meaning "the river that flows swiftly."

Originally, this referred specifically to the stretch of the North Saskatchewan River that runs through the region. Over time, the name was extended to the entire territory and later the province (established 1905).

The river remains central to the province's geography, history, and identity.