harikoa
The Maori word for happy is harikoa.
harikoa is an adjective used to describe someone or something that is feeling contented or joyous.
Meaning: contented, joyous (adj)
Did you know?
- The concept of happiness in Māori is closely tied to mauri, which is the life force or essence of a person. When a person is harikoa, it is often described as their mauri being in a state of balance and strength.
- In Maori culture, happiness is often tied to 'manaaki', meaning to show hospitality or care toward others, suggesting that joy is found in communal service.
- The structure of Māori allows harikoa to be used in ways that can describe the atmosphere of a place, not just a person. A house or a gathering can be described as being in a state of harikoa.
Examples in context
- Ka harikoa ahau kia kite i a koeI am happy to see you
- He harikoa ahau i tēnei rā.I am happy today.
- He harikoa te whānau i te pō.The family is happy tonight.
Example conversation
Aroha and Wiremu are talking about a birthday party.
- ArohaKei te harikoa koe mō te pāti?Are you happy about the party?
- WiremuĀe, kei te harikoa rawa au!Yes, I am very happy!
- ArohaHe pai tēnā, e Wiremu.That is good, Wiremu.
- WiremuKa kitea tēnā i tō kanohi.That can be seen on your face.
