nani
/ˈna.ni/
The Hawaiian word for "gorgeous" is nani.
The term nani is used to describe something that is very beautiful. Depending on the context, you may encounter variations like Nehenehe to describe the exquisite or splendid beauty found in art or nature or Nani wale to express that something is super pretty or totally beautiful.
Meaning: very beautiful (adj)
Which one should you use?
While nani is the standard way to say gorgeous, Nehenehe is used specifically for describing exquisite or splendid beauty, often in relation to nature or art. Nani wale is a more emphatic, informal way to say something is super pretty or totally beautiful.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ˈna.ni/. It has 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable.
Did you know?
- Hawaiian uses 'reduplication' to change the intensity of words. While nani means gorgeous, repeating the word as nani nani can emphasize a shimmering or repeating pattern of beauty.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, beauty like nani is often linked to 'mana', a spiritual power or energy. Something truly gorgeous is seen as possessing a powerful spiritual presence.
- In Hawaiian, the concept of beauty is often tied to the idea of light or radiance, a nuance that is captured in the way one describes something as 'gorgeous'.
Examples in context
- Nani loa kēia pua.This flower is very beautiful.
- He wahine nani ʻoe.You are a beautiful woman.
Example conversation
Leilani and Keanu are looking at a sunset on the beach.
- LeilaniNani ka lā kai.The sunset is gorgeous.
- KeanuʻAe, nani loa.Yes, it is very gorgeous.
- LeilaniMakemake au e noho ma kēia wahi.I want to stay in this place.
- KeanuAu pū.Me too.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry nani, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
