Hawaiian Word of the Day: September 24th

By Leilani Poliʻahu

Published September 24, 2024 at 12:00 AM HST

Kikowaena means “center.” You can use it to describe such things as a shopping center. Ala Moana Center, for example, is kikowaena kūʻai ʻo Ala Moana.

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

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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.