kahu
The Hawaiian word for guardian is kahu.
In a legal or social context, kahu describes a person who has the responsibility of caring for a child or a specific object/sacred thing.
Meaning: law: person legally responsible for a minor in loco parentis (noun)
What does it mean word for word?
The word kahu literally refers to a caretaker, steward or one who tends to something or someone.
Did you know?
- While it means 'guardian', the word kahu shares an ancient root with words meaning 'to light a fire'.
- While kahu means guardian, the word can also refer to a 'cloak' or 'covering' in certain contexts, reflecting the idea of protection.
- In a spiritual context, a kahu can be a person who tends to the spiritual needs of a community, similar to a pastor.
Examples in context
- Pono e loaʻa kahi kahu.A guardian must be found.
Example conversation
Leilani and Keanu are at a school registration office.
- LeilaniHe kahu anuanu ʻoe no kēia haumāna?Are you a legal guardian for this student?
- KeanuʻAe, ʻo au ka kahu.Yes, I am the guardian.
- LeilaniE kōkua mai i kēia pepa, e Keanu.Please help with this paper, Keanu.
- KeanuE hana au i kēia kēlā me kēia.I will do this right now.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kahu, CC BY-SA 4.0.
