nani
/ˈna.ni/
The English phrase "pretty" is translated into Hawaiian as nani.
The adjective nani is used to describe something or someone as pleasant or attractive. It is especially of women and children.
Meaning: especially of women and children: pleasant, attractive (adj)
How do you pronounce it?
The word has 2 syllables, with the stress on the 1st syllable. It is pronounced /ˈna.ni/.
Did you know?
- To say something is 'very pretty', Hawaiians might repeat the word as nani nani. This reduplication is a common way to intensify an adjective in the language.
- In Hawaiian culture, nani describes more than just physical appearance. It can refer to the beauty of a voice, a spirit or a noble character.
- While nani describes beauty, it is often used as a name for women in Hawaii. It functions as both a descriptive adjective and a proper noun.
Examples in context
- He wahine nohea 'o iaShe is a pretty woman.
- 'O ia ka wahine naniShe is the pretty woman.
- Kaikamahine naniPretty Girl
- Keiki kane naniPretty Boy
- Ka pua naniPretty Flower
- Ahiahi naniPretty Sunset
- Nani ka hoa.The girlfriend is pretty.
- Nani ka keiki.The child is pretty.
Example conversation
Koa is complimenting Malia on her new dress.
- KoaNani kēlā kīkī.That dress is pretty.
- MaliaMahalo, e Koa.Thank you, Koa.
- KoaNani hiamoe ʻoe i kēlā.You look pretty in that.
- MaliaHāʻawi mai i ke kōkua.I appreciate the help.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry nani, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
