Back to Dictionary

dem

Meaning: them

Pronunciation: DEM
expressions beginner

Meaning

them
those people

Usage: Refers to them or those people. It's the plural form of "da" or "that."

Examples

"Dem guys over dea"

"Dem guys over dere, dey always late."

"I saw dem at da store."

Origin & Cultural Context

Origin: A Pidgin adaptation of the English plural pronoun "them," used to refer to a group of people or things.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "dem" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?

"dem" means "them" in Hawaiian Pidgin. Refers to them or those people. It's the plural form of "da" or "that.".

How do you pronounce "dem"?

"dem" is pronounced "DEM". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!

How do you use "dem" in a sentence?

Example: "Dem guys over dea"

Quick Actions

Related Pidgin Words

Pidgin & Local Culture Corner

Pidgin Grammar Tip

"Plurals in Pidgin are often formed by adding 'them' or 'dem' after the noun (e.g., 'The boy dem')."

Local Culture Fact

"The 'okina (ʻ) is a consonant in the Hawaiian language representing a glottal stop."

Want to learn more? Check out our Learning Hub or Talk Story with Kimo!

Practice Your Pidgin

How Local You Stay?

Think you know how for use "dem"?

Take the Quiz →