mele
/ˈme.le/
mele is the Hawaiian word for a traditional Hawaiian song or chant.
The term mele refers specifically to traditional Hawaiian chants or songs, often used to convey history, genealogy or praise.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables and the stress is on the first syllable: /ˈme.le/.
Did you know?
- A mele can actually possess 'mana', a form of spiritual power. Historically, certain chants were so potent that they were restricted to specific practitioners who used them to influence the natural world.
- Traditional mele were not just music but served as the primary archives of Hawaiian history. Because the language had no written form for centuries, genealogy and laws were preserved through these chants.
- In the practice of mele hula, the chant is regarded as the primary source of truth while the dance acts as the accompaniment.
Examples in context
- He mele kēia.This is a song.
Example conversation
Kai and Malia are practicing music together.
- KaiMalia, a'o mai kēia mele.Malia, teach me this song.
- MaliaʻAe, he mele kahiko kēia.Yes, this is an ancient chant.
- KaiHe mele pili loa kēia.This song is very meaningful.
- MaliaE hoʻomālaʻla kākou i ka mele.Let us honor the chant.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry mele, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
