Manito \Man"i*to\, Manitou \Man"i*tou\, Manitu \Man"i*tu\, n. A name given by tribes of American Indians to a great spirit, whether good or evil, or to any object of worship. --Tylor. Gitche Manito the mighty, The Great Spirit, the creator, Smiled upon his helpless children! --Longfellow. Mitche Manito the mighty, He the dreadful Spirit of Evil, As a serpent was depicted. --Longfellow.