CNS –
Hawaii, the land of stunning beaches, towering waves, and a vibrant culture, has its own unique language that reflects the island’s diverse history and environment.
While many visitors may recognize words like “Aloha” or “Mahalo,” there’s a whole lexicon of local slang that only true islanders understand.
Whether you’re riding the waves or simply enjoying the laid-back lifestyle, mastering these Hawaiian slang words will give you a deeper connection to the culture. So, surf’s up! Here are 18 Hawaii slang words that locals swear by.
1. Aloha
Perhaps the most famous Hawaiian word, “Aloha” means both hello and goodbye, but it’s much deeper than that. It signifies love, compassion, and kindness. It’s a word that embodies the spirit of the islands.
2. Mahalo
A simple but powerful word that means “thank you.” It’s a reminder to be grateful for the people and experiences around you.
3. Shaka
This hand gesture, made by extending your thumb and pinky while keeping your other fingers curled, is a symbol of “hang loose” or “good vibes.” Locals use it to greet others, express approval, or simply show they’re down for a chill time.
4. Pono
Pono means righteousness or doing what’s right. It’s a guiding principle in Hawaiian culture that calls for balance and harmony in all things.
5. Ono
“Ono” translates to “delicious” or “tasty.” If you’re enjoying a local plate lunch or poke bowl, you might hear someone say, “This is ono!” to express how good it tastes.
6. Grinds
This is the Hawaiian way to say “food.” So if you’re looking for a meal, you might hear someone ask, “Where’s the best grinds?”
7. Da Kine
“Da kine” is a versatile slang term that locals use when they can’t think of the right word or when they want to refer to something in a vague way. It can mean anything, depending on the context—whether it’s a place, thing, or person.
8. Haole
“Haole” refers to someone who is non-Hawaiian, typically of Caucasian descent. While it can sometimes carry a negative connotation, it’s often used casually in everyday conversation.
9. Keiki
The Hawaiian word for “child” or “children.” You’ll often hear locals refer to their kids as “keiki” with affection.
10. Mana
This is the spiritual energy that flows through all things. “Mana” is often used in Hawaiian culture to refer to power, strength, or an intangible force.
11. Hana Hou
“Hana hou” means “do it again!” or “encore.” If you’re at a performance or event and someone does something impressive, a group of people might shout, “Hana hou!” to ask for more.
12. Mele
5 Texas Cities That Are Attracting More Snakes: What You Need to Know
“Mele” means song or chant, and it’s an essential part of Hawaiian tradition, often used in ceremonies and celebrations. The term can also refer to a musical composition.
13. Kamaʻāina
This term refers to a local resident or someone who has lived in Hawaii for a long time. It can also refer to those who have Hawaiian roots.
14. Lokahi
A word that means unity or harmony. “Lokahi” is an important concept that reflects the idea of coming together and working toward common goals.
15. Rubbah Slippahs
In Hawaii, “rubbah slippahs” are flip-flops. Locals often wear these casual shoes everywhere—whether they’re going to the beach or running errands.
16. Shore Break
A “shore break” refers to waves that break close to the shore, which are often strong and fast. It’s a term frequently used by surfers to describe challenging wave conditions.
17. No Ke Aloha
A phrase that means “with love.” It’s often used to show affection or to emphasize that something is done with good intentions. Locals may use this phrase when gifting something or making a gesture of goodwill.
18. Broke Da Mouth
A fun, exaggerated way of saying something is incredibly delicious. It’s a term locals use to describe food that’s so good it almost “breaks your mouth” with flavor.
Conclusion
Hawaii’s slang reflects the warmth, vibrancy, and diversity of its people and culture. Whether you’re visiting or living on the islands, these 18 words will help you understand the spirit of aloha, deepen your appreciation for local traditions, and keep you in tune with the flow of island life.
So next time you’re in Hawaii, try sprinkling a few of these words into your conversation—you’ll be talking like a local in no time!