kūpuna
The English phrase grandparents is kūpuna in Hawaiian.
kūpuna is used to refer to the parents of one's father or mother. In a broader sense, it can also mean ancestors or elders.
Which one should you use?
The informal term Tūtū is used to refer to grandparents and can be used for both grandmothers and grandfathers.
When do people say it?
In Hawaiian culture, kūpuna are highly respected as the keepers of knowledge and tradition.
Did you know?
- The concept of kūpuna is central to the Hawaiian value of 'hoʻoponopono', where elders often play a crucial role in mediating and resolving family disputes.
- The informal term Tūtū is a reduplication, a common linguistic pattern in Hawaiian used to create terms of endearment or familiarity.
- When speaking of kūpuna, one is often acknowledging a person's connection to 'mana', or spiritual power, which is believed to be passed down through generations.
Example conversation
Kai and Kiana are looking at old family photos.
- KaiHe wai pē lā kēia kūpuna?Who are these grandparents?
- KianaʻO nā kūpuna kēlā o koʻu makuahine.Those are my mother's grandparents.
- KaiHe nani loa lākou.They are very beautiful.
- KianaʻAe, he mau kumu lākou.Yes, they are teachers.
