rā
/ˈraː/
The Maori word for "date" is rā.
rā refers to a specific point in time, such as a specific day on the calendar. It can also be used to refer to historical events or special occasions.
Meaning: point in time (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈraː/
Did you know?
- The word rā is a cognate of the Malay word layar, which means 'sail'.
- While rā is used for a date, Maori culture traditionally views time as a fluid connection between the past and the future, rather than a linear sequence of dates.
Examples in context
- He rā pai tēnei.This is a good day.
Example conversation
Aroha and Tane are planning a party.
- ArohaKua kōwhiri koe i tētahi rā?Have you chosen a date?
- TaneKāore, ahau e mīharo ana.No, I am wondering.
- ArohaMe whai rā tātou i aianei.We should have a date now.
- TaneAe, me mahi tēnā.Yes, let's do that.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry rā, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries rā, CC BY-SA 4.0.
