As Hawaii is the 50th State, the primary language spoken is English. However, as Hawaii is a melting pot of all different cultures, you will hear various languages spoken. One of which is the Hawaiian language where you may hear these common words during your trip:

aloha (ah-loh-hah)

A warm expression to greet people with a welcome, hello, goodbye or farewell.

Ewa (eh-va)

It is the name of a city on the West side of Oahu. It is also used as a direction term: heading in the westward direction of the island. (Helpful to know if you happen to ask residents for directions.)

kahuna (kah-hoo-nah)

A priest/minister; an expert in their field, profession.

Kalakaua (kah-lah-cow-a)

The name of the main street in Waikiki.

kama'aina (kah-mah-eye-nah)

Used to reference long-time residents of Hawaii.

kane (kah-nay)

A boy or man, male. You may see this word to identify restroom doors.

keiki (kay-kee)

Child, children, babies.

kokua (koh-koo-ah)

Help, aid, assist, support, accommodate.

lanai (lah-nigh)

A patio, porch, deck/balcony.

lei (lay)

A traditional garland or necklace made of flowers, leaves, shells or other items which is given to someone for a number of reasons: welcome greeting, farewell, birthday, anniversary, promotion, wedding, graduation, etc.

lu'au (loo-ow)

A Hawaiian feast. Also used to reference parties, gatherings, or special events.

mahalo (mah-ha-loh)

An expression of thanks, gratitude, appreciation.

makai (ma-kigh)

Heading in the direction towards the ocean. (Helpful to know if you happen to ask residents for directions.)

mauka (mow-kah)

Heading in the direction towards the mountains or inland. (Helpful to know if you happen to ask residents for directions.)

'ohana (oh-hah-nah)

A family or a close group of people related to each other.

'ono (oh-noh)

Delicious, flavorful, tasty. Used often to describe Hawaiian and other local/ethnic foods.

pau (pow)

All finished, done, end.

pupu (poo-poo)

An appetizer, hors d'oeuvre, snack.

wahine (wah-hee-nay)

A girl or woman, female. You may see this word to identify restroom doors.

wikiwiki (wee-kee-wee-kee)

Speedy, fast, swift. Used often in terms relating to shuttle/transportation services.

Want to learn more Hawaiian words or look up the translation for English words? Click here to visit an online Hawaiian dictionary website.