hoa
/ˈho.a/
In Hawaiian, the English phrase buddy is translated as hoa.
hoa is used to describe a friend or companion. While it can refer to a casual buddy, it is also the standard term for a close friend.
Meaning: friend or casual acquaintance (pron)
How does it change in a sentence?
hoa is an invariant noun, meaning it does not change its form to indicate plurality.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. It is pronounced /ˈho.a/.
When do people say it?
You can describe a beloved or dear friend by using the phrase hoa aloha, which combines hoa with the word for love or affection.
Did you know?
- Despite having different origins, the word hoa can also stem from a root meaning 'to break into large pieces', suggesting an ancient connection between 'breaking' and 'sharing' or 'partnering'.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, the concept of hoa is closely linked to ohana, where friends are often treated as extended family members.
- The term hoa is used in various contexts to mean a 'companion' in a journey, echoing the ancestral history of Polynesian voyaging.
Examples in context
- He hoa kēlā.That is a friend.
Example conversation
Two people meet at a community event.
- KeanuAloha, he hoa hou mākou.Hello, we are new buddies.
- NoelaniAloha, Keanu!Hello, Keanu!
- KeanuHe hoa pono ʻoe, Noelani.You are a reliable buddy, Noelani.
- NoelaniMahalo nui loa.Thank you very much.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry hoa, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries hoa, CC BY-SA 4.0.
