makuahine
/ˌma.ku.aˈhi.ne/
The English word mother is translated into Hawaiian as makuahine. Wiktionary also lists meme and eme.
Meaning: female (human) who gives birth to or parents a child (noun)
Ways to say it
| Hawaiian | IPA |
|---|---|
| makuahine | /ˌma.ku.aˈhi.ne/ |
| meme | |
| eme |
The term refers to a female human who gives birth to or parents a child.
What does it mean word for word?
The word makuahine is a compound of makuā, meaning parent and hine, meaning female or girl.
Which one should you use?
While makuahine is the standard term, meme and eme are informal, affectionate ways to say 'mom'.
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 5 syllables. The stress is on the 4th syllable: /ˌma.ku.aˈhi.ne/.
Did you know?
- In many Hawaiian songs, the word for mother is often replaced by poetic metaphors involving nature, such as a specific flower or a source of water.
- In traditional Hawaiian culture, the concept of 'mother' extends beyond biological ties to include any female elder who provides care and guidance.
- The word hine found in some versions of the term is closely related to words for 'girl' or 'maiden' in other Polynesian languages, such as Māori.
Examples in context
- He makuahine kēia.This is a mother.
- He makuahine hauʻoli kona.His mother is happy.
Example conversation
Leilani and Kai are talking about their families.
- LeilaniHe makuahine maikaʻi kou makuahine.Your mother is a good mother.
- KaiMahalo, Leilani.Thank you, Leilani.
- LeilaniHe aha ka inoa kona?What is her name?
- KaiʻO Malia kona inoa.Her name is Malia.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “mother” translations and entries makuahine, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
