uē
To cry in Hawaiian is uē.
The word uē is an intransitive verb meaning to shed tears.
Meaning: intransitive: to shed tears (verb)
Did you know?
- Historically, professional mourners were sometimes employed to uē and compose chants to ensure a chief's spirit was properly sent off.
- In many Polynesian languages, including Hawaiian, the word uē can also mean to tremble or shake, connecting physical trembling to intense emotional distress.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, the act of uē was often an organized, communal ritual called kanikau used to honor the deceased.
Examples in context
- Uē au no ka mana'o'i'o iā 'oeI cry because of my belief in you
- Uē ke keiki.The child is crying.
- Uē mau ka wahine.The woman keeps crying.
- E uē ana ia.He is going to cry.
Example conversation
Malia is comforting Koa after a sad movie.
- MaliaKe uē nei ʻoe, e Koa?Are you crying, Koa?
- KoaʻAe, ua uē au.Yes, I cried.
- MaliaHe moʻolelo sad loa kēia.This is a very sad story.
- KoaʻAe, ua uē au i ka hope.Yes, I cried at the end.
