ao
/ˈao̯/
The Hawaiian word for cloud is ao.
ao refers to a visible mass of water droplets suspended in the air.
Meaning: visible mass of water droplets suspended in the air (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation is /ˈao̯/.
Did you know?
- In traditional Hawaiian thought, clouds are often linked to the concept of 'ao', which can signify light or the realm of the living.
- Historically, observing the movement of ao was critical for ancient Hawaiian navigators to predict wind shifts and land proximity.
- The Hawaiian word ao descends from an ancient Proto-Austronesian root that specifically meant 'day'.
Examples in context
- Ke ao e holo ana ma ka lani.The cloud is moving across the sky.
- He ao nui kēlā.That is a large cloud.
- Ua ʻike au i ka ao.I saw the cloud.
Example conversation
Malia and Koa are looking at the sky.
- MaliaE nānā i kēlā ao!Look at that cloud!
- KoaHe ao nani ia, Malia.It is a beautiful cloud, Malia.
- MaliaE hele mai ana ka ua.The rain is coming.
- KoaʻAe, he ao ʻeleʻle ia.Yes, that is a dark cloud.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “cloud” translations and entries ao, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ao, CC BY-SA 4.0.
