holoholona
/ˌho.lo.hoˈlo.na/
The Hawaiian word for "animals" is holoholona.
The term refers to living creatures that are not human.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In certain islands, there are variations for specific animal names such as puaʻa (pig) and moa (chicken).
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 5 syllables, with the stress on the 4th syllable: /ˌho.lo.hoˈlo.na/.
Did you know?
- While holoholona is the general term, many animals are referred to as keiki meaning 'children' when they are pets or cherished companions.
- Because of its roots, the word holoholona literally evokes the image of 'those who go walking' or 'wanderers'.
- If you use the root holoholo in conversation, you are not talking about fauna, but rather inviting someone to 'go for a stroll' or 'take a walk'.
Examples in context
- E hele mākou i ka hale o ka ʻīlio hauʻoli.Let's go to the house of the happy dog.
- Nānā i ka naiʻa i loko o ke kai.Look at the dolphin in the ocean.
Example conversation
Noelani and Ikaika are visiting a zoo.
- NoelaniE nānā i nā holoholona kēlā!Look at those animals over there!
- IkaikaHe nani loa lākou.They are very beautiful.
- NoelaniHe holoholona lākou i ka pōpoki?Are cats animals?
- IkaikaʻAe, he holoholona kēlā.Yes, those are animals.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry holoholona, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
