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potagee

Meaning: Portuguese person

Pronunciation: poh-tah-GEE
people intermediate

Meaning

• Portuguese person

Usage: This term refers to people of Portuguese descent. It's a common way to identify someone's heritage. Used with affection among Portuguese-descended locals, it can be derogatory from an outsider; read the room.

Examples

"My tutu was potagee"

"My neighbor, he Potagee, he make da best malasadas."

"Da Potagee people, dey know how fo' cook."

Origin & Cultural Context

Origin: Refers to the Portuguese immigrants who came to Hawai'i to work on the sugar plantations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "potagee" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?

"potagee" means "Portuguese person" in Hawaiian Pidgin. This term refers to people of Portuguese descent. It's a common way to identify someone's heritage. Used with affection among Portuguese-descended locals, it can be derogatory from an outsider; read the room..

How do you pronounce "potagee"?

"potagee" is pronounced "poh-tah-GEE". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!

How do you use "potagee" in a sentence?

Example: "My tutu was potagee"

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Pidgin & Local Culture Corner

Pidgin Grammar Tip

"The word 'pau' means finished or done, and is one of the most common loanwords from Hawaiian."

Local Culture Fact

"The concept of 'Ohana' means family, but can also include close friends and the broader community."

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