hanu
To breathe in Hawaiian is hanu.
hanu is a verb meaning to draw air in and out of the body.
Meaning: to draw air in and out (verb)
Did you know?
- The word hanu is also used to describe the act of smelling. In Hawaiian, the concept of breathing in a scent is linguistically tied to the physical act of breathing.
- The concept of hā is so vital that it appears in the word haʻahaʻa, meaning 'humble'. This suggests that humility is linked to a 'lowered' or quiet breath.
- While hanu is the general verb, the phrase haʻi hā refers to the 'breaking of the breath', which is a poetic way to describe the moment of death.
Examples in context
- Hanu i ka hau.Breathe the air.
- E hanu pono.Breathe properly.
Example conversation
Kiana and Ikaika are practicing yoga together.
- KianaIkaika, e hanu hohonu.Ikaika, breathe deeply.
- IkaikaKe hana nei au.I am doing it.
- KianaE hanu malie i kēia manawa.Breathe calmly right now.
- IkaikaMahalo, Kiana.Thank you, Kiana.
