palaʻai
The Hawaiian word for pumpkin is palaʻai.
The word refers to the fruit of the pumpkin plant.
Meaning: fruit of this plant (noun)
Which one should you use?
palaʻai is the standard term, while pōkiniki is an informal term.
Did you know?
- The word palaʻai is often used metaphorically in Hawaiian to describe a person who is a 'slacker'.
- The informal term pōkiniki is actually a Hawaiianized version of the English word 'pumpkin'.
- In Hawaii, pumpkins are often grown and used in ways that mirror local staples, appearing in savory dishes rather than just as sweet pies.
Examples in context
- Mahalo! I can't wait to taste your huapala pie.Mahalo! I can't wait to taste your pumpkin pie.
- He palaʻai kēia.This is a pumpkin.
Example conversation
Noelani and Ikaika are looking at vegetables in a market.
- NoelaniHe palaʻai kēia?Is this a pumpkin?
- IkaikaʻAe, he palaʻai ia.Yes, it is a pumpkin.
- NoelaniHiki nō ke kūʻai i ka palaʻai?Can I buy the pumpkin?
- IkaikaʻAe, hiki nō.Yes, you can.
