kai
/ˈkai̯/
In Hawaiian, kai means the salt water of the ocean.
kai refers to the salt water of the ocean or the ocean itself.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˈkai̯/
Did you know?
- In Hawaiian, kai can also mean 'gravy' or 'sauce'. This usage comes from the idea of a liquid condiment being similar to salt water.
- While kai means salt water, the word for fresh water is wai, differing by only one letter.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, the 'kai' is not just water but is often viewed as a spiritual entity and a source of cleansing and healing.
Examples in context
- Aloha, Kai!Hello, Kai!
- E nānā i ka kai.Look at the ocean.
Example conversation
Ikaika and Malia are standing on the beach.
- IkaikaMakemake ʻoe i ka kai, Malia?Do you like the ocean, Malia?
- MaliaʻAe, makemake au.Yes, I do.
- IkaikaHolo e kīpipi i ka kai!Run and splash in the salt water!
- MaliaHe wāwaena ka kai i kēia lā.The ocean is warm today.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry kai, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kai, CC BY-SA 4.0.
