20+ Hawaiian Slang
Words and Meanings

Hawaii is more than just breathtaking beaches and stunning landscapes, it has a rich culture and unique language that makes it truly special. One of the most distinctive aspects of Hawaiian communication is Hawaii Pidgin, a Creole language developed through the blending of Hawaiian, English, and various immigrant languages. While Pidgin is widely spoken among locals, there are also many Hawaiian slang words and phrases you should know before you visit the islands.

How to Pronounce Hawaiian Words

Hawaiian words are typically pronounced syllabically, meaning each vowel is enunciated. Here are a few pronunciation tips to help you:

Vowels:

• A = “ah” as in “father”
• E = “eh” as in “bet”
• I = “ee” as in “see”
• O = “oh” as in “go”
• U = “oo” as in “moon”

Glottal Stop (‘okina): This is a slight pause, like the break in “uh-oh"

Macron (kahakō): A line over a vowel indicating it should be elongated.

20+ Popular Hawaiian Slang Words Used by Locals

When visiting Hawaii, learning a few common slang words can help you better connect with the local culture. Here are some must-know words and their meanings:

Hawaiian Slang Words, Phrases, and Meanings

1. Aloha
Pronunciation: "Ah-loh-ha"
Interpretation: Can mean hello, goodbye, love, or compassion, depending on the context.
In use: "Aloha! Welcome to Hawaii."

2. Da Kine
Pronunciation: "Dah-kine"
Interpretation: A versatile phrase meaning "whatchamacallit" or "thingamajig," often used when a word is forgotten.
In use: "Can you pass me da kine?"

3. Hana Hou
Pronunciation: "Hah-nah hoe"
Interpretation: "One more time" or "Encore!" Often heard at performances.
In use: "That song was amazing! Hana hou!"

4. Ho Brah!
Pronunciation: "Ho brah!"
Interpretation: An expression of excitement or disbelief, like “Wow, dude!”
In use: "Ho brah! That wave was huge!"

5. Howzit?
Pronunciation: "How-zit"
Interpretation: A casual way of saying "How are you?"
In use: "Howzit, my friend?"

6. Kama‘aina
Pronunciation: "Ka-ma-aye-na"
Interpretation: A local resident of Hawaii, regardless of ethnicity.
In use: "He’s a kama‘aina, born and raised here."

7. Kāne
Pronunciation: "Kah-neh"
Interpretation: The Hawaiian word for "man" or "male."
In use: "That kāne is a great surfer."

8. Kau Kau
Pronunciation: "Cow-cow"
Interpretation: A slang term for food or eating, similar to "grindz."
In use: "Let’s go get some kau kau!"

9. Keiki
Pronunciation: "Kay-kee"
Interpretation: The Hawaiian word for "child" or "children."
In use: "The keiki are playing on the beach."

10. Lei
Pronunciation: "Lay"
Interpretation: A garland of flowers, shells, or nuts given as a sign of affection or welcome.
In use: "She received a beautiful flower lei."

11. Lū‘au
Pronunciation: "Loo-au"
Interpretation: A traditional Hawaiian feast featuring food, music, and hula dancing.
In use: "We’re going to a lū‘au tonight!"

12. Mahalo
Pronunciation: "Ma-ha-low"
Interpretation: "Thank you."
In use: "Mahalo for your kindness."

13. Menehune
Pronunciation: "Men-eh-hoo-neh"
Interpretation: Mythical small people in Hawaiian legends, known for their craftsmanship.
In use: "The menehune built this ancient fishpond."

14. ‘Ono
Pronunciation: "Oh-no"
Interpretation: "Delicious," often used to describe food.
In use: "This poke is so ‘ono!"

15. ‘Ohana
Pronunciation: "Oh-ha-na"
Interpretation: "Family" in an extended sense, including close friends.
In use: "‘Ohana means family, and family means no one gets left behind."

16. Pau
Pronunciation: "Pow"
Interpretation: "Finished" or "done."
In use: "Are you pau with work?"

17. Puka
Pronunciation: "Poo-ka"
Interpretation: "Hole" or "opening," often used to describe small holes in clothing or accessories.
In use: "That shell has a nice puka for a necklace."

18. Shaka
Pronunciation: "Sha-kah"
Interpretation: A hand gesture symbolizing "hang loose" or "good vibes."
In use: "Give a shaka for the camera!"

19. Slippahs
Pronunciation: "Slip-ahs"
Interpretation: Flip-flops or sandals, a common footwear in Hawaii.
In use: "Don’t forget your slippahs for the beach."

20. Tūtū
Pronunciation: "Too-too"
Interpretation: A term of endearment for "grandmother" or "grandfather."
In use: "Tūtū made us some fresh bread."

21. Wahine
Pronunciation: "Wah-hee-neh"
Interpretation: The Hawaiian word for "woman" or "female."
In use: "That wahine is an amazing dancer."

Why You Should Learn Hawaiian Slang Before Visiting

Learning Hawaiian slang and Pidgin words before your trip can help you engage with locals and appreciate the island culture even more. Whether you’re ordering some ‘ono kau kau or throwing a shaka, understanding these phrases will enrich your experience in paradise.

So, next time you visit Hawaii, give a heartfelt "Aloha!" and immerse yourself in the beauty of both the islands and their language.