poke
The Hawaiian word poke means to jab with an object such as a finger or a stick.
poke is used as a verb to describe the action of poking or jabbing something with an object.
Meaning: to jab with an object such as a finger or a stick (verb)
Did you know?
- While the word poke is often used to refer to the dish in English, in Hawaiian, the word actually refers to the action of cutting or slicing the fish into pieces. The dish itself is often more accurately described by the ingredients used.
- Although it sounds identical to the English word 'poke', the Hawaiian poke has a completely different origin and meaning. It is a linguistic coincidence known as a false friend.
- In Hawaiian culture, the process of preparing poke traditionally involves hand-mixing the fish with sea salt. This emphasizes the physical, tactile connection between the cook and the ingredients.
Example conversation
Keanu and Leilani are looking at a strange insect on a leaf.
- KeanuLeilani, e poke i ka pōpoki!Leilani, poke the bug!
- LeilaniʻAʻole au makemake e poke!I do not want to poke it!
- KeanuHe mea liʻiliʻi ia.It is a small thing.
- LeilaniE poke pono ʻoe, Keanu.You poke it instead, Keanu.
