moana
/moˈa.na/
The English word "ocean" is translated into Hawaiian as moana. Wiktionary also lists kai.
Meaning: one of the large bodies of water (noun)
Ways to say it
| Hawaiian | IPA |
|---|---|
| moana | /moˈa.na/ |
| kai | /ˈkai̯/ |
moana is used to refer to the vast, deep ocean. It is the standard term used when naming specific large bodies of water, such as the Pacific Ocean.
Which one should you use?
While both terms can refer to water, they have different nuances. moana specifically refers to the vast, deep ocean, emphasizing its scale. In contrast, kai refers more generally to the sea or to saltwater itself.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /moˈa.na/. It has three syllables, with the stress on the second syllable.
Did you know?
- In Hawaiian, the word kai refers to the sea or saltwater, but it is also used to mean 'gravy' or 'sauce'.
- In Hawaiian culture, the moana is often viewed as a connecting highway rather than a barrier between islands.
- The term moana is used as a proper name for people in Hawaii and across the Pacific, often symbolizing the depth and vastness of the ocean.
Examples in context
- Moana PākīpikaPacific OceanThis example shows how to name the Pacific Ocean using moana.
- He nui ka moana.The ocean is large.
- E hele ana kāua i ka moana.We are going to the ocean.
Example conversation
Ikaika and Malia are standing on the beach looking at the water.
- IkaikaHe nani ka moana i kēia lā.The ocean is beautiful today.
- MaliaʻAe, he polū loa ia.Yes, it is very blue.
- IkaikaMakemake ʻoe e kōkē i ka moana?Do you want to swim in the ocean?
- MaliaʻAe, e hele kāua!Yes, let's go!
Sources
- Wiktionary, “ocean” translations and entries moana, kai, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries kai, moana, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Wiktionary CC BY-SA 4.0.
