Winamac is a name associated with several Potawatomi leaders and warriors dating back to the late 17th century. The term originates from Wilamet, an Eastern Native American man who was appointed in 1681 to serve as a liaison between New France and the indigenous people of the Lake Michigan region.
After being adopted by the Potawatomi tribe, Wilamet's name—which translates to "Catfish" in his native Eastern Algonquian language—was adapted into "Winamac," the equivalent translation in the Potawatomi language. The name has been recorded in various spellings over time, including Winnemac, Winamek, and Winnemeg.