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manapua

Meaning: pork bun

Pronunciation: mah-nah-POO-ah

Meaning

• pork bun

Usage: Manapua is a staple snack food in Hawai'i, often sold from food trucks, bakeries, and convenience stores. It's a popular choice for a quick meal or a treat, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Examples

"Buy manapua"

"Eh brah, goin' get some manapua latah?"

"Dis manapua so ono, I could eat 'em all!"

Origin & Cultural Context

Origin: Manapua's origins are rooted in Chinese immigrants who brought the char siu bao (barbecue pork bun) to Hawai'i. Over time, it was adapted and became a beloved part of the local cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "manapua" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?

"manapua" means "pork bun" in Hawaiian Pidgin. Manapua is a staple snack food in Hawai'i, often sold from food trucks, bakeries, and convenience stores. It's a popular choice for a quick meal or a treat, enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds..

How do you pronounce "manapua"?

"manapua" is pronounced "mah-nah-POO-ah". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!

How do you use "manapua" in a sentence?

Example: "Buy manapua"

Quick Actions

Related Pidgin Words

Pidgin & Local Culture Corner

Pidgin Grammar Tip

"To indicate past tense, Pidgin often uses 'wen' before the verb (e.g., 'I wen go' for 'I went')."

Local Culture Fact

"The kahakō (vowel with a macron) indicates a long vowel sound in Hawaiian words."

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