ma-ke
Meaning: dead
Meaning
Usage: Can refer to literal death or, more commonly in Pidgin, to something being broken or out of power.
Examples
"My phone stay ma-ke."
"The battery ma-ke already."
Origin & Cultural Context
Origin: Hawaiian
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "ma-ke" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?
"ma-ke" means "dead" in Hawaiian Pidgin. Can refer to literal death or, more commonly in Pidgin, to something being broken or out of power..
How do you pronounce "ma-ke"?
"ma-ke" is pronounced "MAH-keh". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!
How do you use "ma-ke" in a sentence?
Example: "My phone stay ma-ke."
Quick Actions
Related Pidgin Words
benjo
restroom, toilet, bathroom
dirty lickens
severe beating
fakamean
what the fuck does that mean, you're kidding, what do you mean
gullah gullahs
mixed up, confused
haole rot
tinea versicolor, skin fungus, white spots on skin
malama your boto
Take care of your private parts
Pidgin & Local Culture Corner
Pidgin Grammar Tip
"Questions in Pidgin often use a rising intonation at the end of a statement rather than changing word order."
Local Culture Fact
"The 'Aloha Spirit' is actually part of Hawaii state law (HRS [ยง 5-7.5])."
Want to learn more? Check out our Learning Hub or Talk Story with Kimo!