How to Say Dog in Hawaiian: Formal and Informal Ways

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or simply have an interest in the Hawaiian language, learning how to say common words and phrases can greatly enhance your understanding and appreciation of the Aloha State’s rich culture. One of the first words many people like to learn is “dog.” In this guide, we will explore how to say “dog” in Hawaiian, both formally and informally, as well as provide some tips, examples, and regional variations.

Formal Ways to Say Dog in Hawaiian

In formal Hawaiian, the word for “dog” is “īlio.” This term is widely recognized and used in various situations, including formal conversations, literature, and educational settings. Here are a few examples of how to use “īlio” in sentences:

1. Ke ākea nei ko’u mau maka i ka nani o ka īlio. (My eyes admire the beauty of the dog.)

2. Hana nui ke ākea o ke īlio i ka waʻa hī (The dog’s loyalty to the canoe is great).

3. Ua ana aʻe nei ka hala o ke īlio i ka ho’eau (The dog’s tail is wagging with joy).

As you can see, “īlio” is a versatile word that can be used in different contexts to describe and refer to a dog.

Informal Ways to Say Dog in Hawaiian

While “īlio” is the formal word for dog, there are a few informal ways to refer to a dog in Hawaiian. These terms are often used in casual conversations with friends or family members. Here are some popular alternatives:

1. Pōloli: This term literally means “hungry” or “starving” in Hawaiian, but it is frequently used colloquially to refer to a dog. For example:
   

   A: E hele kākou i ka pau hana? (Should we go to the beach?)

   B: ʻAʻole, e hele nō i ka moana me ka pōloli. Ua loaʻa iā mākou ka pilina āna me ke īlio. (No, let’s go to the beach with the dog. We have a special bond with him.)

   In this example, “pōloli” is used to refer to the dog as a close companion.

2. Ilio-makaawao: This term translates to “wild dog” or “stray dog” and is often used informally to refer to a dog that doesn’t have an owner. Here’s an example:
   

   Nui nā ʻilio-makaawao i ka moana o Hawaiʻi. (There are many stray dogs on the beaches of Hawaii.)

   “Ilio-makaawao” emphasizes the dog’s untamed nature and lack of owner.

3. Popoki: Although “popoki” typically means “cat,” it is sometimes jokingly used to refer to dogs among close friends. This playful usage adds a touch of humor to conversations. For instance:
   

   A: E hele kāua i ka hale pele? (Shall we go to the volcano?)

   B: ʻAe, e hele nō kāua, akā ke lawe i ko popoki kele. (Yes, let’s go, but bring your dog/cat with us.)

   In this case, “popoki” is used humorously to refer to the dog as a “cat,” creating a playful atmosphere.

Regional Variations

Hawaiian is spoken across different regions in the islands, and some variations in vocabulary and pronunciation may exist. However, when it comes to the word for “dog,” the terms discussed above are widely understood and accepted throughout Hawaii. Therefore, there are no significant regional variations specifically for the word “dog” in Hawaiian.

Conclusion

Learning how to say “dog” in Hawaiian can be a fun and enriching experience. The formal way to say “dog” is “īlio,” while popular informal alternatives include “pōloli,” “ilio-makaawao,” and even humorously using “popoki.” Remember to use these terms appropriately based on the context and your level of familiarity with the person you’re speaking to. By incorporating these Hawaiian words into your conversations, you can deepen your connection to the rich cultural heritage of the Aloha State, foster meaningful relationships, and create more engaging experiences during your time in Hawaii.