Hawaiian Word of the Day: June 15th

By Leilani Poliʻahu

Published June 15, 2023 at 12:00 AM HST

Mākaukau means "able, competent, prepared." You often hear this word called out by chanters who are asking the hula dancers if they are ready. The answer is always ʻae, for yes.

Hawaiian Word of the Day

Leilani Poliʻahu

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Hoʻolele means “to cause to fly.” And coupled with leo – for voice – it means “broadcast,” as we do these Hawaiian words every day on Hawaiʻi Public Radio. Hoʻolele leo – causing the voice to fly.
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Hawaiian Word of the Day: October 10th

Leilani Poliʻahu

Puaʻa means “pig, swine, hog, pork.” And although it is a commonly used Hawaiian word, even in English conversation, it is often mispronounced. Say puaʻa as in kamapuaʻa. Puʻa is also another pronunciation you might hear, especially among native speakers.