maolek
The Chamorro word for "good" is maolek.
In Chamorro, maolek is an adjective used to describe something that is pleasant or enjoyable.
Meaning: pleasant, enjoyable (adj)
Did you know?
- Because Chamorro is an Austronesian language, maolek shares an ancient linguistic root with words for 'beauty' or 'excellence' found in languages from Madagascar to the Philippines.
- The concept of 'good' in Chamorro is often tied to communal harmony, meaning maolek can describe a social situation that is peaceful and without conflict.
- In the Mariana Islands, maolek can be used as a greeting of well-being, similar to saying 'all is well' rather than just describing an object as 'good'.
Example conversation
Luis and Theresa are talking about a recent trip.
- LuisMaolek i viahe-mu?Was your trip good?
- TheresaHúgu, maolek i viahe.Yes, the trip was pleasant.
- LuisMaolek i kåno' na tåga'u?Was the feeling of the place good?
- TheresaHúgu, maolek i kåno' i tåno'.Yes, the feeling of the land was good.