The word “Wichita” is derived from the Wichita language, which is a Caddoan language spoken by the Wichita people. The name of the tribe in their own language is “Kitikiti’sh,” which means “raccoon-eyed people,” referring to the distinctive facial tattoos that were traditionally worn by Wichita men. The name “Wichita” itself is believed to have been a French version of this name, as the tribe was encountered by French explorers in the 18th century. The name “Wichita” has been used to refer to the tribe and their homeland ever since.