hapa
Meaning: half
Meaning
Usage: This term describes someone of mixed ethnic heritage, most commonly used in Hawaii to refer to people of part-Hawaiian ancestry. It acknowledges the diverse cultural makeup of the islands.
Examples
"She hapa Hawaiian Chinese"
"Eh, she hapa, yeah? Her tata is Japanese, and her muddah is Filipino."
"I'm hapa, but I like stay wit' my Hawaiian side mo' bettah."
Origin & Cultural Context
Origin: From the Hawaiian word meaning 'half' or 'part', reflecting the historical mixing of different ethnic groups in Hawaii.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "hapa" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?
"hapa" means "half" in Hawaiian Pidgin. This term describes someone of mixed ethnic heritage, most commonly used in Hawaii to refer to people of part-Hawaiian ancestry. It acknowledges the diverse cultural makeup of the islands..
How do you pronounce "hapa"?
"hapa" is pronounced "HAH-pah". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!
How do you use "hapa" in a sentence?
Example: "She hapa Hawaiian Chinese"
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Local Culture Fact
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