Quick Answer
"Keiki" (pronounced "KAY-kee") means child or children in Hawaiian. It's one of the most commonly used Hawaiian words in everyday Hawaii life. You'll see it on restaurant menus (keiki menu), at hotels (keiki pool), beaches (keiki-friendly), and in countless local expressions. Whether referring to one child or many, "keiki" is the go-to word throughout the islands.
How to Pronounce "Keiki"
Breakdown:
- "KAY" - Like the letter "K" or "kay" in "okay"
- "kee" - Like "key" that unlocks a door
Common mistakes:
- Don't say "KEE-kee" (wrong first vowel)
- Don't say "KY-kee" (the 'ei' is 'ay' not 'eye')
- Remember: KAY-kee, like "okay key"
Where You'll See "Keiki" in Hawaii
"Keiki Menu" - Children's menu
Smaller portions, kid-friendly options
"Keiki Pool" / "Keiki Club"
Children's pool, kids' activity programs
"Keiki-friendly beach"
Safe for children, calm waters
"Keiki hula" / "Keiki activities"
Children's performances and events
"Keiki o ka aina" (children of the land)
Educational and cultural programs
"Keiki clothes" / "Keiki sizes"
Children's clothing and merchandise
How Locals Use "Keiki"
"How many keiki you get?"
How many children do you have?
"Da keiki stay playing outside"
The kids are playing outside
"She get three keiki - two boys, one girl"
She has three children - two boys, one girl
"Dis beach good fo' keiki"
This beach is good for children
"When I was one keiki..."
When I was a child...
Related Hawaiian Family Terms
Ohana
Family (blood and chosen)
Tutu
Grandparent (tutu wahine = grandma, tutu kane = grandpa)
Kupuna
Elder, grandparent, ancestor
Makua
Parent (makuahine = mother, makuakane = father)
Hanai
Adopted child/family member
Kaikamahine
Daughter / girl
Fun Fact
"Keiki" is so common in Hawaii that many locals don't even realize it's Hawaiian - they just use it naturally instead of "kids" or "children." You'll even hear it on the mainland when Hawaii transplants accidentally slip it into conversation: "My keiki are at school" or "Is this keiki-friendly?"
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