kūpuna
Meaning: elder
Meaning
Usage: Respected elder
Examples
"Listen to da kūpuna, they get wisdom"
"Respect kupuna"
Origin & Cultural Context
Origin: Hawaiian
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "kūpuna" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?
"kūpuna" means "elder" in Hawaiian Pidgin. Respected elder.
How do you pronounce "kūpuna"?
"kūpuna" is pronounced "koo-POO-nah". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!
How do you use "kūpuna" in a sentence?
Example: "Listen to da kūpuna, they get wisdom"
Quick Actions
Related Pidgin Words
kamali'i
children, kids
manong
older Filipino man, older brother, respectful term for Filipino elder
'ohana
family, extended family, close friends
kama'āina
local resident, longtime resident, native-born, child of the land
māhū
third gender, in between male and female, transgender, homosexual male; crossdresser
pākē
Chinese person, of Chinese origin, of Chinese descent
Pidgin & Local Culture Corner
Pidgin Grammar Tip
"The word 'da kine' is a versatile placeholder used when you can't remember a specific word."
Local Culture Fact
"The shaka sign (🤙) is a common gesture in Hawaii expressing the 'Aloha Spirit'."
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