niu
/ˈni̯u/
niu is the Hawaiian word for coconut.
The term niu refers to the coconut fruit, the entire coconut tree and its parts.
Meaning: fruit of coco palm (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈni̯u/
Did you know?
- In some linguistic interpretations, the word niu is thought to be related to the concept of 'turning round', describing the way the fruit or the tree might rotate or move.
- In Hawaiian culture, the niu is often called the 'tree of life' because every part of it can be used for food, drink, shelter or fuel.
- Because the niu is a staple, Hawaiian has specific descriptors for the coconut based on its stage of ripeness, which drastically changes its use.
Examples in context
- Piha ka niu i ka wai.The coconut is full of water.
- He niu kēia.This is a coconut.
- Makemake au i ka niu.I want the coconut.
Example conversation
Ikaika and Noelani are preparing food at home.
- IkaikaNoelani, aia ka niu?Noelani, is the coconut there?
- NoelaniʻAe, aia ma luna o ka papa.Yes, it is on the table.
- IkaikaMahalo, e kīkī au i ka niu.Thanks, I will crack the coconut.
- NoelaniMaikaʻi kēlā, Ikaika.That is good, Ikaika.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “coconut” translations and entries niu, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries niu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
