lea
/ˈle.a/
lea is the Hawaiian word for an open field, meadow or pasture.
lea is a noun used to describe an open area of land, such as a meadow or a pasture.
Meaning: open field, meadow, pasture (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
lea is pronounced /ˈle.a/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The word lea is also used to describe a state of happiness or a feeling of joy. In this context, it refers to the emotional openness and lightness one feels, much like the feeling of being in an open field.
- In Hawaiian culture, the concept of lea is often linked to the goddess Laka, the patron of hula and forests, who governs the lush greenery and open spaces of the land.
- While English speakers use 'meadow' to imply lush grass, a Hawaiian lea might describe a landscape that looks much more arid or volcanic to a Western eye.
Examples in context
- He mea nani ka lea.The meadow is beautiful.
- E hele ana kāua i ka lea.Let us go to the open field.
- He nui ka lea ma kēia ʻāina.There are many pastures in this land.
Example conversation
Ikaika and Leilani are walking through the countryside.
- IkaikaE nānā i kēia lea!Look at this meadow!
- LeilaniHe lei nani loa ia, Ikaika.It is very beautiful, Ikaika.
- IkaikaHiki pū mākou ke noho ma ka lea.We can also sit in the field.
- LeilaniʻAe, e noho kākou.Yes, let's sit.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry Lea.
