ʻāmene
The Hawaiian word for "amen" is ʻāmene.
ʻāmene is used primarily in religious contexts, such as at the end of a prayer, to express strong agreement or affirmation.
Meaning: expression of strong agreement (intj)
What does it mean word for word?
The word ʻāmene is a transliteration of the English or Latin word "amen" into Hawaiian orthography.
When do people say it?
In religious or spiritual contexts like prayers, blessings or ceremonies, the phrase E kauna mai can also be used to express "amen".
Did you know?
- In many traditional Hawaiian settings, spiritual affirmation is conveyed through breath and rhythmic chants rather than a single static word like ʻāmene.
- The use of ʻāmene in Hawaii is a linguistic marker of the historical influence of Christian missionaries on the Hawaiian language and culture.
- The glottal stop in ʻāmene is represented by the ʻokina, which is a full consonant in Hawaiian. Without this mark, the word would be pronounced and written differently.
Examples in context
- ʻĀmene, he maikaʻi kēlā.Amen, that is good.
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing the importance of family.
- MaliaMalia, ʻo ka ʻohana ka mea nui loa.Malia, family is the most important thing.
- KeanuʻĀmene, Keanu, ua pololei kēlā.Amen, Keanu, that is correct.
- MaliaHe mea kupaʻa kēia i koʻu puʻuwai.This is something firm in my heart.
- KeanuʻOia Raspberry, he mana nui kēlā.Yes, that is a great power.
