Some Useful Hawaiian Words

akamai: smart, clever, wise
aloha: the most common greeting in the islands; it can mean hello or goodbye, welcome or farewell. It can also mean romantic love, affection or best wishes.
heiau: a traditional Hawaiian temple. A platform made of skillfully fitted rocks, upon which structures were built and offerings made to the gods.
huklilau: traditional shoreline fish-gathering in which everyone lends a hand to huki (pull) the huge net. Anyone taking part shares in the lau (food).
hula: a native Hawaiian dance in which the rhythm of the islands is captured by swaying hips and stories told by lyrically moving hands. A halau is a group or school of hula.
ipo: sweetheart; lover; girlfriend or boyfriend
kamaaina: a child of the land; an old timer; a longtime island resident of any ethnic background; a resident of Hawai'i or native son or daughter.
kane: means man, but actually used ot signify a relationship such as husband or boyfriend. Written on the door of the men's room.
kapu: forbidden; taboo; keep out; do not touch.
kaukau: slang word meaning food or chow.
keiki: child or children; used by all ethnic groups.
lanai: veranda or porch.
lei: a traditional garland of flowers or vines. One of Hawai'is most beautiful customs. Given at any auspicious occasion, but especially when arriving in the islands.
lomi lomi: traditional Hawaiian massage; also raw salmon made in a vinegared salad with chopped onion and spices.
lua: the toilet or bathroom.
luau: a Hawaiian feast featuring poi, kalua pig, lomi lomi salmon, haupia and other traditional foods
mahalo: thank you. Mahalo nui loa means big thanks or thank you very much.
menehune: the legendary little people of Hawai'i. Like Leprechauns, they are said to have shunned humand and possess magical powers.
muumuu: a Mother Hubbard, an ankle-length dress with a high neckline indtoduced by the missionaires to cover the nakedness of the Hawaiians. It has become fashionable attire for almost any occasion in Hawai'i.