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Words to Know In 
'ōlelo Hawai'i

'ōlelo Hawaiʻi is the native language of the Hawaiian Islands. Discover and master key Hawaiian words to immerse yourself in Hawaii's rich cultural heritage. Our comprehensive guide offers essential words that enhance your experience, deepen your connection with the local culture, and showcase respect for the Hawaiian language. Hover over each box to see the word used in a sentence.

01.

ALOHA (a-low-ha)

Hello, goodbye, love, affection, compassion

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"As the tourist bid farewell to their newfound friends on the island, they waved with a smile, saying, "Aloha!"

02.

MAHALO (ma-ha-low)

Thank you

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The gracious host offered a heartfelt mahalo to the guests for attending the traditional luau celebration."

03.

E KOMO MAI (eh-ko-mo-mai)

Welcome

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

Upon entering the cozy beachfront cottage, the host greeted the arriving guests with a cheerful e komo mai.

04.

OHANA (oh-ha-na)

Family

 

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The close-knit ʻohana gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter late into the night."

05.

ʻĀINA (eye-na)

Land, Earth, Country

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The farmers tended to the rich ʻāina, cultivating taro and sweet potatoes in the fertile soil of the valley."

06.

HEIAU (hey-ow)

 

Hawaiian temple or sacred place

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The ancient heiau stood as a silent sentinel, preserving the spiritual legacy of Hawaii's indigenous people."

07.

WAI  (v-eye)

 

Water

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The crystal-clear wai of the mountain stream provided a refreshing respite for weary hikers on the trail."

08.

KAMAʻAINA (kama-eye-na)

Local resident

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The kamaʻāina shared stories of growing up on the island, passing down traditions and values to the younger generation."

09.

MALIHINI (ma-li-he-nee)

Visitor or Tourist

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"As a malihini to the islands, she was eager to explore every corner of Oahu and immerse herself in Hawaiian culture."

10.

MAUKA (m-ow-ka)

Towards the mountain (inland)

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The hiking trail led mauka, offering stunning vistas of lush valleys and towering peaks."

11.

MAKAI (ma-kai)

Towards the ocean (seaward)

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The beachgoers strolled makai, enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore."

12.

WAHINE (wah-hee-nay)

Woman or female

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The hula dancer was a wahine adorned in traditional attire."

13.

KANE (kah-nay)

Man or male

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The kane paddled his canoe in strong giant strokes"

14.

OPALA (oh-pah-la)

Trash or refuse

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"Please be respectful of your time in Hawaii and pick up your opala"

15.

MOANA (mo-ah-na)

Ocean or sea

USE IT IN A SENTENCE 

"The moana stretched out endlessly before us as we gazed at its serene beauty."

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