hoʻomaha
/ˌho.ʔoˈma.ha/
The Hawaiian word for relax is hoʻomaha.
hoʻomaha is used to describe the act of resting and becoming relieved of stress. It can also be used to express the general concept of relaxation or taking a break.
Meaning: (intransitive) to rest and become relieved of stress (verb)
What does it mean word for word?
The verb hoʻomaha is a causative form derived from the root maha, which relates to pausing or resting. Therefore, it literally means 'to cause to rest'.
How does it change in a sentence?
In its form hoʻomaha, the word functions as an intransitive verb used to mean 'to relax'.
How do you pronounce it?
/ˌho.ʔoˈma.ha/. The word has 4 syllables, with the stress on the 3rd syllable.
Did you know?
- While hoʻomaha means 'to relax', the root word maha can also refer to the 'abdomen' or 'belly' in different contexts.
- In Hawaiian culture, the concept of relaxation is often tied to hoʻomaha in the context of the 'Sabbath' or a designated day of rest.
- The word hoʻomaha contains the 'okina, a glottal stop marked by the symbol ʻ, which is a full consonant in the Hawaiian alphabet.
Examples in context
- Hoʻomaha a nanea.Relax and enjoy.
- E hoʻomaha.Relax.
- Makemake au e hoʻomaha.I want to relax.
Example conversation
Kiana and Keanu are taking a break from work.
- KianaLuhi kʻoe, Keanu?Are you tired, Keanu?
- KeanuʻAe, luhi kʻoe.Yes, I am tired.
- KianaE hoʻomaha kʻoe i kʻeia manawa.Relax for a moment.
- KeanuMahalo, Kiana.Thank you, Kiana.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry hoʻomaha, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
