hōʻihi
The Hawaiian word for respect is hōʻihi.
hōʻihi is a noun used to express admiration for a person or an entity due to their perceived merit.
Meaning: admiration for a person or entity because of perceived merit (noun)
When do people say it?
In Hawaiian culture, elders are addressed as Aunty for women.
Did you know?
- The concept of respect is closely tied to mana, a spiritual energy or power that can be increased or diminished depending on how one treats others.
- In Hawaii, showing respect to the land, or ʻāina, is considered as important as showing respect to people, because the land is viewed as an ancestor.
- The concept of 'kapu' represents a more intense, ritualized form of respect and sacredness that carries heavy social consequences if broken.
Examples in context
- He hōʻihi kēia i ka kūpuna.This is respect for the elder.
Example conversation
Kiana and Kai are discussing a respected teacher at school.
- KianaHe mea nui ka hōʻihi i ka kumu.Respect for the teacher is important.
- KaiʻAe, he kumu kupaianaha kēia.Yes, he is an amazing teacher.
- KianaHe kumu i loaʻa ka hōʻihi.He is a teacher who earned respect.
- KaiUa ʻike aku au i kēlā.I see that too.
