Hawaiian Word of the Day: November 18th

By Leilani Poliʻahu

Published November 18, 2024 at 12:00 AM HST

Puʻuwai is Hawaiian for heart. And while it is often used as a center of emotions, that is probably a Western concept. The earliest reference to the heart in that context was in 1853.⁠

Hawaiian Word of the Day

Leilani Poliʻahu

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Most of us use the Hawaiian word kahu when we refer to the pastor of our church, a preacher or minister. Kahu in its first meanings is an honored attendant, guardian, nurse, keeper of bones, regent, keeper, administrator. It is also a warden, caretaker, master, mistress — even one who has a dog, cat, pig, or other pet.