‘āwapuhi
The Hawaiian word for ginger is ‘āwapuhi.
While both terms refer to ginger, ‘āwapuhi specifically refers to the *Zingiber zerumbet* species of ginger. In contrast, pelekunu is a more general term that can encompass different types of ginger.
Meaning: spice (noun)
Which one should you use?
The term ‘āwapuhi is specific to the *Zingiber zerumbet* species, whereas pelekunu is a broader term used for various kinds of ginger.
Did you know?
- The plant known as ‘āwapuhi is also called 'shampoo ginger' in English because the bracts produce a fragrant, clear liquid that can be used to wash hair.
- The spelling of ‘āwapuhi includes an ‘ called an ‘okina, which is a consonant representing a glottal stop.
- Traditional Hawaiian healers, or kahuna lā’au, used the rhizome of ‘āwapuhi for various healing poultices.
Examples in context
- He ‘āwapuhi kēia.This is ginger.
- Makemake au i ka ‘āwapuhi.I want some ginger.
Example conversation
Leilani and Koa are cooking in the kitchen.
- LeilaniHe ‘āwapuhi kou?Do you have ginger?
- Koa‘Ae, aia ma ka pākē.Yes, it is in the box.
- LeilaniMahalo, e kōkō mai ia.Thanks, give it to me.
- KoaEia ka ‘āwapuhi, Leilani.Here is the ginger, Leilani.
