kava
Meaning: traditional Polynesian ceremonial beverage
Usage: A traditional calming beverage prepared from the roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), shared across the Pacific and Hawaii during ceremonies and community gatherings.
"Come join da kava circle tonight and talk story."
"Drinking kava helps you relax and pau hana in peace."
Origin: Polynesian / Hawaiian (ʻawa).
What does "kava" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?
"kava" means "traditional Polynesian ceremonial beverage" in Hawaiian Pidgin. A traditional calming beverage prepared from the roots of the kava plant (Piper methysticum), shared across the Pacific and Hawaii during ceremonies and community gatherings..
How do you pronounce "kava"?
"kava" is pronounced "KAH-vah". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!
How do you use "kava" in a sentence?
Example: "Come join da kava circle tonight and talk story."
holokū
traditional formal Hawaiian gown, floor-length dress with train
lai see
money in red envelope, lucky money, red envelope gift
makahiki
ancient Hawaiian New Year festival, season of peace and harvest, year
puʻuwai
heart, affection, feelings
'auana
modern hula
'aumakua
family guardian
"The word 'buggah' can refer to a person, a thing, or an animal depending on the context."
"Many Pidgin words have roots in Portuguese, Cantonese, Japanese, Filipino, and Hawaiian."
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