makana
/maˈka.na/
The Hawaiian word for "gift" is makana.
makana is a noun used to describe something that is given to another person voluntarily and without any charge.
Meaning: something given to another voluntarily, without charge (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has three syllables: ma-KA-na. The stress is on the second syllable. It is pronounced /maˈka.na/.
Did you know?
- The word makana shares a root with terms related to 'sight' and 'looking', suggesting a historical link between seeing something beautiful and wanting to give it.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, a makana is often not just an object, but can include a performance, a song, or even a specialized skill shared with the recipient.
- Hawaiian uses the same word makana for both a present and a reward, blurring the line between a voluntary gift and a deserved prize.
Examples in context
- He makana kēia.This is a gift.
- He makana kēia no ʻoe.This is a gift for you.
Example conversation
Keanu gives Noelani a present for her birthday.
- KeanuHe makana nńu no ʻoe.I have a gift for you.
- NoelaniMahalo nui, Keanu!Thank you so much, Keanu!
- KeanuHe makana liʻiliʻi wale nńu.It is just a small gift.
- NoelaniHe makana nani kē.That is a beautiful gift.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “gift” translations and entries makana, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
