kuma
The Niuean word for rat is kuma.
kuma is a noun used to refer to a rodent.
Meaning: rodent (noun)
Did you know?
- While the kuma is currently a pest, early Polynesian voyagers intentionally carried them across the ocean as a living food reserve for emergencies.
- Because Niue has no natural land predators, the arrival of the kuma caused a devastating collapse of the island's native bird populations.
- Because the kuma was brought to the islands by early voyagers, some elders historically viewed the animal as a sign of human arrival rather than just a wild pest.
Examples in context
- Kua fano te kuma.The rat has gone.
Example conversation
Mikaele and Mele are in the kitchen at night.
- MikaeleKua fakaali te kuma!A rat has appeared!
- MeleKua fano te kuma?Has the rat gone?
- MikaeleIole, kua fano ki he kave.No, it ran into the garden.
- MeleKua fano te kuma he kave.The rat has gone to the garden.
