This article was prepared from a series developed by Terry Naauao Panee, Hawaii Village Manager at the Polynesian Cultural Center. What is haupia? Fun fact: In the Hawaiian language, w is often pronounced with a v sound when it comes after a vowel and in the middle of a word. Hope you continue to enjoy looking at the stars. These two terms are so commonly used in local pidgin and refer to a young woman or man. Used in collaboration with the word "mauka" (see below) to give directions. This beautiful first name for girls is very popular in Tahiti and Hawaii, it means : "crown of the sky". 6. Your email address will not be published. That is THE SWEETEST nickname ever! The real meaning of Aloha in Hawaii is love, peace, and compassion - Aloha isn't just a greeting, it's a way of living. Cheer on your best . Before heading to Tahiti, it's good to know a little bit about the languages commonly spoken throughout the Society Islands in French Polynesia. According to the Wehewehe dictionary, rainor rains may signify joy, life, growth, greenery; good fortune (light rains, mist); grief, sorrow, and tears (heavy rains); the presence of gods or royalty, beauty; hardship.. What does choke mean? Mahalo for reading! This word derives from Japanese and means to pee. The standard word beautiful is "nani". Hawaiian proverbs and sayings. Many Hawaiian names use the word kai, either as simply Kai, Kekai (the sea), Kailani (heavenly sea), Kainani (beautiful sea), and so forth. Legally it may be used on all emblems and symbols representative of the State, its departments, agencies and political subdivisions. When traveling to Hawaii, you will see that the Hawaiian language is still widely used in everyday life throughout the islands. But if someone says Mahalo nui loa (pronounced muh-huh-low-nuu-ee) instead of mahalo, that means they are very grateful because what they are saying is thank you very much! There are superstitions that Jesus Christ visited people of ancient Hawaii on Mauna Kea, which is why some locations on the mountain are considered sacred. While it might give you some insights or clues about the ancient people of America, as well as the possibility of the Hawaiians migrating from an ancient American civilization, Im sure it will also provide insight on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. A feat that astonished many people in the canoe building community. What does kapu mean? What does okole mean? Do you have any other favorites to add? I know Honolulu has a long and short o sound, but I dont know if this is a missionary pronunciation? Im Okinawan.. but I like haole girls. Akamu - The Hawaiian name for Adam, it means of the earth. I feel so honored to be a part of this list with so many other talented Hawaii bloggers and influencers! Mahalo also means admiration, praise, esteem, regards, and appreciation. Click here to read our full Privacy Policy and Affiliate Disclosure Statement. How do you use sistah/braddah in Hawaiian pidgin? Thank you for inspiring this series!!! Example: Who went die and made you kahuna? What does hanabata mean? Aloha. Musubi is a Japanese word for rice ball wrapped in nori (seaweed). Say hello to Aunty for me. Great suggestion! Note: all photos submitted become property of A Friend in the Islands and may be used for promotion. Example: Hey braddah, no go school or wat today? Once you arrive in Hawaii, you find out that it is much more. How come were taught that Hawaiian only has short vowels, when we have words like Hilo, Hoku, and Io? on Awesome Hawaiian Words You Can Learn In Under 2 Minutes, 27 Unique and Awesome Instagram Captions: Travel Edition, Amazing Oahu Hikes for every Ability Level (with Pictures! In contrast, negativity and self-doubt keep us small and stuck. How do you pronounce da kine? Again hoo is a causative, and Hoolaulea means; Celebration, festival, gathering for a celebration, large party; satisfaction; to hold a celebration, to celebrate; to reconcile, restore peace or friendship, appease; to preserve friendship and good will; to be at peace with; to seek to please. Its an expression of excitement! Aikeni: This name is the Hawaiian version of Aiden, a word meaning "little fire." Akela: Meaning "graceful." A popular unisex name. Pronounced MEH-lay kuh-lee-key-MA-kah, this word means Merry Christmas. When locals refer to the mainland, they mean the continental states. Example: So, you catch any fish? Oh yeah. -Lei, Your email address will not be published. What does tita mean in Hawaiian pidgin? Aloha. Ohana is the Hawaiian word for family and is probably a word you are already familiar with as it is widely used. And while theres no reason to learn Hawaiian before your vacation, you may want to familiarize yourself with the most basic and popular terms (including Pidgin slang) youre likely to hear on your upcoming trip. Someone who is from Hawaii is called local, not Hawaiian. Answer (1 of 5): Mikael Davidsson's answer about linguistic reduplication is correct. When in Hawaii, I never hear locals say patio, I always hear them call it the lanai. Unlike English, which uses a subject-verb-object syntax, Hawaiian lists the action first, then the performer, and then the object. Haupia is a Hawaiian coconut milk-based dessert and popular flavor for desserts. The Hawaiian word Lkahi reflects unity. The term tita refers to a tough local woman or a female version of a moke. It means "you're welcome." A 'o ia! Be patient . It symbolizes so much: heaven, heavenly, something sacred. . Go eat! Contents hide. Geeve em haha, Ah yes, garoot! What does pali mean? Example: Da pig stay ready? No can reach. Example: Da kine, pick up 12 pack green bottles and one pizza. Oh yeah! Most Popular Phrases in English to Hawaiian. What does hale mean? The Hawaiian language, 'lelo Hawai'i, came to our shores along with the first people to arrive from the ancestral homelands of Polynesia. Its the local way to excitedly say all right!. This pidgin word means to be frugal or have a tight wallet, aka cheap. Ailani, meaning "supreme leader" or "high queen." Although it's an old name, it's favored by many Hawaiian parents to this day. This is a popular pidgin phrase used as a filler word whenever you cant remember something. Example: I stay local, brah. For macron usage, replace the underline below a letter with a macron over the same letter. 2. . Moon in Hawaiian is mahina, pronounced mah hi nah. Because the moon has several cycles, the Hawaiians added a word at the end of mahina to signify each moon cycle. Saw Aunty at Zippys and talk story. What does it mean to grind in Hawaii? Example: How the waves? Junk. Hawaii has some of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Ive only known people named Nalu, with nothing added to it. 17 beautiful foreign words that have no English translation. Example: Hanapaa! Mar 4, 2019 - Explore Joanne Krech's board "Hawaiian Words", followed by 126 people on Pinterest. What does pakalolo mean? Yes, aloha can serve as both "hello" and "goodbye," but when you say aloha to another person, you're saying so much more. Hk is a popular name and includes Kahoku, which means the star. Most use the word with descriptive words at the end, such as Hokulani (heavenly star) or Hokunani (beautiful star). How do you pronounce kamaaina? The gentle sea turtles are a common sight in the waters around the islands. For example, the Wiki-Wiki Sh. pah-kah-LOW-low. In modern times, Kehlani has become an increasingly . Hawaii Photo of the Day and Moment of Aloha Video Postings: Tips to create a beautiful meaningful wedding without the burden of wedding debt: Subscribe to the Aloha Friends YouTube channel for Luau craft tutorials, ideas for Hawaii theme celebrations, and relaxing Moment of Aloha videos to enjoy a mental vacation to Hawaii anytime. Example Every Friday is Allan friday I have always found it fascinating that nearly every culture and civilization has some kind of white god, including Hawaii. Mahalo again for sharing, this has been a great read! E hele kua i ke kahakai - Let's go to the beach. Im trying to think of an instance where they make a different sound but I am pulling a blank. It is of utmost importance to respect the aina, or land. Aloha. Nah, these arent anything gross. Id love to hear from you! A luau is like a Hawaiian party, often accompanied by a big feast and some entertainment. A Friend in the Islands Hawaii Resources and Online Island Gift Shop. Use the word "ho'onani" as a verb to describe beauty or to give praise. Ua ola loko i ke aloha - Love gives life within. Aloha encompasses both hello, goodbye, see you later, and love. Here are the, 22 Hawaiian Phrases to learn before you visit Hawaii, which can help you appreciate your visit to Hawaii. Aina is the Hawaiian word for land. This pidgin phrase uses the Japanese loan word hanabata to refer to childhood, ie. In Hawaii, Aloha means more than 'hello'; it expresses wishes for a positive and respectful life. That was something we heard a lot. What does aunty/uncle mean? Included are common Hawaiian words and names that you may encounter during your vacation. Unfortunately, when the United States annexed Hawaii in 1898, the Hawaiian language began a steady decline as it was replaced by . So you may in fact hear some people pronounce hawaii as havaii. Koa is derived from the Hawaiian acacia tree, or Acacia koa, which is endemic to Hawaii and typically grows between 49 to 82 ft high and 20 to 39 ft wide. What does da kine mean? What is musubi? Being Pono is a cultural value that we should all strive for. What does junk mean? What does mauna mean? A Hawaiian sentence sometimes puts the emphatic word at the beginning to make a point. So the word sounds like vai. Water is so important to the Hawaiians. This is why you may often hear of the Hawaiian islands as full of the Aloha Spirit where every person gives warmth and positive thoughts to every other person. You so irrahz. Mahalo. Aloha. There is a difference. I hope by learning a little more about these Hawaiian cosmo words, you will be inspired to go out and experience nature for yourself! Lani means heaven, sky, heavenly, or even spiritual. Hawaiians often use the termlei figuratively, to represent a beloved child that is shared for all to see. Aloysious, Aloha again Aloysious! freebies page for more free Hawaii downloads. Example: I get one pizza. Whatever the material, lei are adornments worn with pride and shared with all to see. It is used as a greeting both to say hello and goodbye, but it also stands for the feeling of love and kindness, aka the aloha spirit. lih-lee-KOY. Lanai is the Hawaiian word for porch or patio and almost every house in Hawaii has one. It doesnt necessarily mean hello and goodbye, but it is used in the same way that good evening can be used to say hello and goodbye. Too many green bottles. The Hawaiian alphabet is comprised of 13 letters (A, E, I, O, U, H, K, L, M, N, P, W), including one letter called okina that is actually an apostrophe. Pidgin for someone who lives in town (Honolulu) and acts more like city folk. Spread the love by sharing! Akahi, meaning "first time ever." A gorgeous name for your first baby that holds all the promises of new beginnings and starting fresh. What is shoyu? It can be used to describe a Caucasian person but can also be derogatory, especially if the person doesnt show aloha. -Lei, Mahalo for your comment, I appreciate it! In Hawaii, slippahs are not just for indoors. Being on Hawaiian time means you are always late, could even be three hours late. Another lovely thing about your nickname is that when people say kuu instead of kou its a less formal way of saying my and also a form of endearment and closeness. Growing up on the Big Island, it rained nearly everyday in Hilo, but it was never a cause to complain. To be glorious; magnificent to behold. The name is Hawaiian for 'one who shines with brilliance'. The standard word beautiful is "nani". Kapu is the Hawaiian word for forbidden, not allowed, stay out. Many Hawaiian names use the word "kai," either as simply Kai, Kekai (the sea), Kailani (heavenly sea), Kainani (beautiful sea), and so forth. This is another very common word you will hear in Hawaii. In the beautiful song "Hawai'i 78" by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole you can hear the phrase being sung. Hammerjang Learn the basic word. Answer (1 of 2): I love the sound of the word kkou (= we three or more) becayse classically its prounounced "KA-toe" which I think just sounds incredible. What does haole mean? Ua ola loko i ke aloha. Each Hawaiian word showcases the grace and respect of this noble culture. Hi Thomas, 1. Since the last time I wrote you about the stars EA, Enlil, and Anu in Sumeria becoming Yah, Elohim, and Ani in Hebrew, and Ahu, Aku, Atua, and Akua in Polynesia, I learned Anu is another name for Vishnu in India. The shaka is the iconic Hawaiian hand gesture, used to signify something is good. What does no need mean? We celebrate everyones culture. But yes, definitely pau hana time and Aloha Friday! There are a few different ways to pronounce "Hawaiian" words, but the most common way is to use a . They can be used for a friend or just someone youve met. Lei is a simple and short word. Required fields are marked *. Of course, this was before lots of people moved to the Big Island. Thanks for sharing! I hope the pronunciations help too! Hawaiians use the hula to tell their stories and can be performed with chants and/or music. Example: Where is dat buggah? Hale is the Hawaiian word for house. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Ive put together this little Hawaiian Pidgin to English dictionary of my favorite Hawaiian slang words and pidgin phrases that youll want to know for your visit! Check it out here! I love your insight on the Hawaiian language and the connections youre finding from other languages. Person 1: I had food all over me and everything!! Pili Olua E, Moku Ka Pawa O Ke Ao ~You two are now one, the darkness is past. www.mauimapp.com Maui Island Guide. ), Ultimate and Printable Guide: Basic Swedish for Travelers. You find an inviting and rich culture much different than the one you may . Along the way, I discovered books by Godfrey Higgins that teach us how our our languages are similar enough that Druids in Ireland could send letters to Greece with offerings for Delphi, and many words are the same in Hebrew, Sanskrit, Arabic, Greek, Latin, Celtic and Persian. The best sources for learning about Polynesian migrations I know of are Plummtree Productions videos and the Polynesian Pathways website with DNA information, by Peter Marsh. The word Pali means Cliff or very steep slope in Hawaiian. This is Hawaiian slang for a Portuguese person. Coolest Hawaiian Words. What does try mean in Hawaii? What is crack seed? Joshua Stearns/Flickr. What are green bottles? Hava in Hebrew can be translated as, Palace, or Being. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. Anyway, I think each Hawaiian vowel is always pronounced, no matter what. eh ko-mo migh. Send us pictures from your Luau or Hawaii Theme Wedding! The Hawaiian word Pono reflects goodness. Hawaiians are truly hospitable. Whenever we are in Hawaii we eat a lot of this and when we go home we bring a lot back as gifts! Let me know in the comments! Gonna make some tako poke fo pupus lata. 78 Hawaiian Slang Words and Pidgin Phrases You'll Want to Know. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Wow the racist examples given on this website are interesting. Directly translating to "after work," pau hana is a celebration of the end of the workday. Example: Plenty good grindz. Example: You broke da TV. Example: Stop that complaining. This beautiful Hawaiian word is used to emphasize the bond shared between both blood relatives as well as people who share a strong connection. Wahine + Kane, the Hawaiian words for women and men, are often used in bathroom signs throughout the islands. How do you say beautiful in Hawaiian? Ohana (family) will come from all over the world to celebrate with us. Mar 17, 2021 - The most common Hawaiian words and phrases as spoken by Native Hawaiian language speakers. 2. What does Hawaiian Time mean? Aloha can be used to say "Hello" or "Goodbye." and it has a deeper meaning to the Hawaiian people. Visit all 51! Li hing mui is very popular in Hawaii and the powder is used to flavor many snacks! This region includes popular vacation spots like Tahiti and Bora Bora.While French is the only official language of Tahiti, Tahitian is a commonly spoken language among locals and is often used by islanders in their homes. What is aku? Fern is kupukupu in Hawaiian and is pronounced koo-poo-koo-poo. Broke Da Mouth - extremely delicious. Is there one you love that isnt listed here? Example: I saw Da Kine at Costco. Klia I ka nu'u - Strive for the summit. Aloha! Example: Whos your new girlfriend? How you know I have a girlfriend? Heard through da coconut wireless.. If you visit during the winter holidays you will quickly realize that mele kalikimaka means Merry Christmas in Hawaiian! All content on the website was written by Mike or Kim Crinella. When you are, Here in Hawaii we love to celebrate, and any time is a good time to have a party. YouTube Aloha Friends Channel. When giving directions in Hawaii, locals usually give it in terms of makai and mauka. Makai refers to the direction towards the ocean, and mauka refers to the direction towards the mountains. Example: No go touch the honu. Yet that is not a cultural value, taught to us by our Kupuna. Example: Aurite, caught some tako today. This is one of the most often used Hawaiian word, even by those who do not fully understand its exact meaning. Got one big mahi mahi! Ma ka hana ka 'ike. FeedSpot featured Naturally Aloha as one of the top 20 Hawaii Lifestyle blogs! Nalu, pronounced nah-loo, is wave in Hawaiian. The pronunciations are great, thank you so much , Yes, so many nuances!!! If you go to a luau, there is a very good chance youll see this dance performed. How do you pronounce choke? Anu and Ani became Ahu, Aku, Atua, and Akua as they migrated between Easter Island to New Zealand, Tahiti, and Hawaii. However, the longer you hold the O sound, the less Hawaiian it becomes. Neva see you long time. My real question is, is it possible that Io was ever pronounced with short vowels, and sounded like Yah? Hilo changed so much I had to move mauka, but I love living in the country. What does howzit mean? Example: To find the trailhead, head mauka til you reach da dead end. Mahalo nui for highlighting the word Alooooooha. I had a hard time choosing which words to place into this article, so I decided to add a few bonus Hawaiian water words! Only those with native Hawaiian ancestry can be called Hawaiian. Nose boogers! Example: You may come across a bathroom sign that says Kane. Everyone's familiar with this Hawaiian word. Time To eat! He claims, all those alphabets originally had 16 letters, and to decipher them as one language, we need to subtract letters from our consciousness. Your teacher. What does e komo mai mean? There were always so many stars. The root of Hoolaulea is laulea meaning; Peace, happiness, friendship; restoration of a disrupted friendship; happy, glad, genial, courteous, and peaceful. California? Some Hawaiian ferns have a word added to the end of kupukupu to . (Facepalm) omg, SOO shame. Is there one that I missed? What is tako? What does puka mean? Example: At the end of a Karaoke song: Hana hou, hana hou! Hanapaa? Example: Hows dat ghost story? [nah-nee] is an abbreviation for 'thank you.' If you haven't heard of her, you're pretty - don't tell anybody about it. I have visited the Hawaiian islands many times myself and will definitely be going again soon (when it is safe of course!).