lilia
/liˈli.a/
The English word "lily" is translated into Hawaiian as lilia.
lilia is a noun used to refer to a flower belonging to the genus Lilium.
Meaning: flower in the genus Lilium (noun)
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /liˈli.a/ and consists of 3 syllables. The stress is on the second of the 3 syllables.
Did you know?
- Hawaiian spelling follows a strict pattern where every consonant must be followed by a vowel. The addition of the final a in lilia ensures the word fits this phonetic requirement.
- Hawaiian does not have a distinct plural form for nouns. Both a single lily and a field of lilies are referred to as lilia.
- In Hawaiian poetry, flowers are often personified, so a 'lily' might be spoken of as having its own 'mana' or spiritual power.
Examples in context
- Ua waiho nā pua lily i loko o ka hale.The lilies were placed inside the house.
Example conversation
Koa and Malia are walking through a garden.
- KoaHe aha kēia pua, Malia?What is this flower, Malia?
- MaliaHe lilia ia, Koa.That is a lily, Koa.
- KoaHe lilia nani loa ia.That is a very beautiful lily.
- MaliaʻAe, he lilia kaulana ia.Yes, it is a famous lily.
Sources
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry Lilia.
