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puka shell

Meaning: naturally perforated cone shell necklace

Pronunciation: POO-kah SHELL
general beginner

Meaning

naturally perforated cone shell necklace
traditional shell jewelry

Usage: A traditional beach necklace or jewelry item made from the worn, naturally holed tip of cone shells found along Hawaiian shorelines.

Examples

"He wearing his vintage puka shell necklace."

"We went hunting for puka shells along da shoreline."

Origin & Cultural Context

Origin: Hawaiian-English hybrid (puka = hole)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "puka shell" mean in Hawaiian Pidgin?

"puka shell" means "naturally perforated cone shell necklace" in Hawaiian Pidgin. A traditional beach necklace or jewelry item made from the worn, naturally holed tip of cone shells found along Hawaiian shorelines..

How do you pronounce "puka shell"?

"puka shell" is pronounced "POO-kah SHELL". Click the "Hear Pronunciation" button above to listen!

How do you use "puka shell" in a sentence?

Example: "He wearing his vintage puka shell necklace."

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Pidgin & Local Culture Corner

Pidgin Grammar Tip

"Plurals in Pidgin are often formed by adding 'them' or 'dem' after the noun (e.g., 'The boy dem')."

Local Culture Fact

"The 'okina (ʻ) is a consonant in the Hawaiian language representing a glottal stop."

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